What is the most basic role of the interpreter?

The most basic role of the interpreter is being a conduit. This concept emphasizes the fundamental task of interpreters, which is to facilitate communication between parties speaking different languages. As a conduit, the interpreter must accurately convey spoken messages from one language to another without altering the content or meaning. This role requires not only linguistic skills but also a deep understanding of cultural nuances and context to ensure that the intended message is transmitted correctly.

Being a conduit means that the interpreter remains impartial and does not inject their own opinions or feelings into the conversation, thereby maintaining a clear and direct flow of information. This is essential for effective communication, as it helps to eliminate misunderstandings and allows for an accurate exchange of ideas and information between speakers.