Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: C Language • Booth Equipment • VRI

Pivot Language

Term from Interpretation industry explained for recruiters

A pivot language is a common or widely-spoken language that interpreters use as a bridge when there isn't a direct interpreter available between two less common languages. For example, if you need translation from Vietnamese to Finnish, but can't find a direct interpreter, you might use English as a pivot language - one interpreter translates from Vietnamese to English, and another from English to Finnish. Think of it like a connecting flight between two cities that don't have direct flights. Common pivot languages include English, French, or Spanish, as many interpreters know these languages.

Examples in Resumes

Served as lead interpreter using Pivot Language approach for international conferences

Coordinated Pivot Language interpretation teams for UN-sponsored events

Specialized in Pivot Language interpretation between Asian and European languages

Typical job title: "Interpreters"

Also try searching for:

Conference Interpreter Simultaneous Interpreter Consecutive Interpreter Language Services Professional Remote Interpreter Multilingual Interpreter

Where to Find Interpreters

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage quality control in pivot language interpretation scenarios?

Expected Answer: The candidate should explain how they ensure accuracy when messages pass through multiple interpreters, including coordination methods, signal systems, and quality checks.

Q: Describe a challenging pivot language situation you managed and how you resolved it.

Expected Answer: Look for examples of leadership in complex multi-language events, problem-solving skills, and ability to maintain interpretation quality across language combinations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What strategies do you use when working with pivot language interpretation?

Expected Answer: Should discuss techniques for maintaining message accuracy, managing time delays, and coordinating with other interpreters in the relay chain.

Q: How do you prepare for an assignment using pivot language interpretation?

Expected Answer: Should mention research of subject matter, coordination with other interpreters, terminology preparation, and technical setup considerations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is pivot language interpretation and when is it used?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic concept of using an intermediate language to bridge between two languages that lack direct interpretation.

Q: What are the main challenges of pivot language interpretation?

Expected Answer: Should identify basic challenges like increased time delay, potential for message distortion, and need for careful coordination with other interpreters.