Language Ideologies and Power Relations in Interpreter-Mediated Communication

Interpreter-mediated communication is often assumed to be a neutral transfer of meaning between speakers of different languages. However, this view overlooks the profound impact that language ideologies and power relations can have on the interpreting process. Language ideologies—understood as implicit beliefs about language, its proper use, and its social significance—can shape interpreters’ choices, influence message delivery, and ultimately affect the power dynamics between participants. This paper explores how interpreters, consciously or unconsciously, act as agents in reproducing or challenging dominant power structures during cross-linguistic interactions. Using the framework of critical discourse analysis (CDA), the study investigates real-world scenarios such as courtroom proceedings, political speeches, and institutional interviews where interpreters play an active role. The findings suggest that interpreters do not merely transfer language but interpret through the lens of their own linguistic and cultural assumptions. Moreover, certain lexical, syntactic, or pragmatic choices may shift the tone, authority, or perceived intent of the original speaker—sometimes in ways that reinforce institutional power or ideological bias. The study concludes that interpreter neutrality is often a myth, and greater attention must be paid to training interpreters in ethical awareness and ideological sensitivity. Recognizing the ideological dimension of interpreting is crucial to ensuring fairness, inclusivity, and transparency in multilingual communication.

کلیدواژه ها:

Language Ideology ، Interpreter-Mediated Communication ، Power Relations ، Critical Discourse Analysis ، Ideological Bias ، Cross-Cultural Mediation