Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Infrared System • Sight Translation • Transmitter Units

B Language

Term from Interpretation industry explained for recruiters

B language refers to an interpreter's second strongest working language after their native tongue (A language). In the interpretation industry, it means the language an interpreter can work both from and into with high proficiency, though perhaps not quite as fluently as their native language. This classification is commonly used by international organizations and conference interpreting services to match interpreters with appropriate assignments. The term is part of a wider language classification system that includes A language (native), B language (active working language), and C language (passive language, which they only interpret from but not into).

Examples in Resumes

Provide simultaneous interpretation between Spanish (A) and English (B Language)

Certified conference interpreter with French as B Language

Developed specialized medical terminology in German (B Language)

Typical job title: "Conference Interpreters"

Also try searching for:

Professional Interpreter Conference Interpreter Simultaneous Interpreter Consecutive Interpreter Language Service Provider Diplomatic Interpreter

Where to Find Conference Interpreters

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle situations where technical terminology in your B language differs significantly from your A language?

Expected Answer: Should discuss research methods, maintaining terminology databases, consulting subject matter experts, and preparing thoroughly before assignments.

Q: What strategies do you use when interpreting complex legal or technical content into your B language?

Expected Answer: Should explain preparation techniques, managing stress, asking for clarification when needed, and maintaining accuracy while working at a comfortable pace.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you maintain and improve your B language skills?

Expected Answer: Should mention regular practice, immersion techniques, continuing education, staying current with news and culture in B language countries.

Q: What do you do if you don't understand a speaker's accent in your B language?

Expected Answer: Should discuss professional strategies like requesting clarification, adapting to different accents, and preparing for various regional variations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between an A language and a B language?

Expected Answer: Should explain that A language is native/strongest language while B language is a second active working language they can interpret both from and into.

Q: How do you prepare for an interpretation assignment in your B language?

Expected Answer: Should describe reviewing relevant vocabulary, studying subject matter, and practicing specific terminology in both languages.