Abstract
This article sheds light on some theoretical and analytical implications of defining interpreting
as interaction – i.e., a specific form for human communication involving translation.
Approaching interpreter-mediated encounters as interaction implies considering interlocutors’
(primary participants and interpreters) situated sense making and the complex nature of
spontaneous spoken interpreter-mediated interaction. Exploring interpreting not just as a type
of translation of source-language utterances into renditions but also as a specific kind of
communicative situation opens up new research avenues such as exploring and explaining the
interdependence between interpreters’ and monolingual participants’ verbal and non-verbal
communicative behaviours. Moreover, this article highlights some practical implications of
approaching interpreting as interaction in the education of interpreters and those they assist
and in the professionalization process of public service interpreting.
https://ror.org/05f0yaq80 
