Debunking the Myths: What You Didn’t Know About ASL Interpreters 

ASL interpreters serve as a vital bridge, expressing what is heard and signing what is said. They play a role unlike any other in language or accessibility. Sign language interpreters’ roles are often misunderstood with requesters expecting too much or too little from these expert communicators. This article will seek to expel common myths and correct misconceptions around sign language interpreters, specifically those of freelance sign language interpreters. This exploration will cover the service they provide, their professional limitations, and the role the requesting entity and Deaf consumers play in their services.  

Myth 1: ASL is Just Signed English  

Unbeknownst to many who are not common users, ASL is a language unique from any other. With it’s own grammar, syntax, and structure interpretation requires more than translation of word-to-word English to signing. Rather, it requires the complex language architecture of converting spoken English into ASL structure and back again. This misconception easily minimizes the unique expertise needed for quality interpretation to occur and detracts from the education and training required by governing entities of professional sign language interpreters.  

Not only is not all ASL Signed Exact English (SEE), ASL carries additional variations used in unique circumstances when preferred by the Deaf user such as tactile interpreting, team interpreting, Certified Deaf Interpreting, close-range/low vision interpreting, Pidgeon Sign Language (PSL), and more.  

Myth 2: Anyone Who Knows ASL Can Be an Interpreter 

In the same way an individual who knows math is not inherently professional qualified to teach math, not all ASL users can be a professional sign language interpreter. Conversational fluency contrasts largely from the wide expanse of regular ASL interpretation assignment needs. ASL interpreters are required and trained to be prepared for a wide array of service areas carrying their own unique hazards and language needs. From complex medical surgeries to court legislation, ASL interpreters are utilized wherever communication access is needed. These scenarios exemplify the wide array of service genres sign language interpreters must be prepared for on a daily basis. As each assignment demands it’s own vocabulary knowledge, these professional interpreters must adapt accordingly.  

Alongside the use of complex jargon unique to each assignment, interpreters are thoroughly trained in the dynamic mental processing required for each assignment. As not every spoken word has an exact sign counterpart, interpreters carry the burden of translation of abstract ideas and complex thoughts, all in live exchange of the assignment. The responsibility and liability of this communication role requires alignment with governing bodies such as the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) who manage interpreter certifications and qualifications nationwide. Interpreters must also navigate everchanging industry updates, local state requirements, and virtual interpretation legislation. A professional interpreter not only carries the language with them, but the industry-required experience, certifications, and qualifications to provide it legally and ethically.  

Myth 3: Interpreters Just “Translate” Word-for-Word 

It’s a common misconception that ASL interpreters simply translate words from English to ASL in a one-to-one fashion. In reality, they interpret meaning, not just language. Translation refers to converting written text from one language to another. Interpretation, on the other hand, is a dynamic, real-time process of conveying spoken or signed communication between languages and cultures. 

ASL interpreters must understand context, tone, cultural nuances, and speaker intent. For instance, the English phrase “break a leg” doesn’t translate literally—it would confuse someone unfamiliar with the idiom. A skilled ASL interpreter might convey it instead as “good luck” or use a culturally appropriate gesture, depending on the Deaf audience. 

Effective interpretation involves critical thinking, cultural fluency, and adaptability—not just vocabulary. Interpreters are not machines—they are language and culture bridges. 

Myth 4: Interpreters Are There to Help the Deaf Person  

While it may seem that interpreters are there solely to assist the Deaf individual, their true role is to serve both parties equally—Deaf and hearing. Interpreters are neutral, impartial communication facilitators, not advocates or personal assistants. 

They don’t “help” the Deaf person in the sense of taking sides or simplifying communication. Their job is to provide accurate, equivalent access to what is being said or signed. In fact, thinking of interpreters as “helpers” can unintentionally diminish the Deaf person’s autonomy and agency. Interpreters don’t “speak for” Deaf individuals—they interpret what the person is saying, not how they should say it or what they should mean. 

Both the Deaf and hearing participants are clients, and the interpreter’s responsibility is to ensure both sides have full access to the conversation. Respecting that balance is key to ethical, effective communication. 

Myth 5: Interpreting Is Easy if You’re Fluent in Two Languages  

Knowing ASL and English is just the beginning—interpreting between them in real time is an intense cognitive task. Interpreters must listen, process meaning, convert it into another language, and deliver it smoothly—all at once. This complex mental juggling act happens every few seconds, without pause. 

The challenge increases with factors like regional dialects, specialized vocabulary (such as medical or legal terms), rapid speech, or multiple speakers in group settings. Unlike written translation, interpreting leaves no time to revise or research. 

Studies show that interpreting requires sustained mental effort. Interpreter fatigue is well-documented, with cognitive load leading to reduced accuracy over time. Research suggests interpreters begin to experience significant strain after just 20–30 minutes of continuous work—one reason team interpreting is standard in many settings. 

Myth 6: All Deaf People Use ASL and Want Interpreters  

The Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community is incredibly diverse—there is no one-size-fits-all approach to communication access. While many Deaf individuals use American Sign Language (ASL), others may prefer different methods, such as CART (real-time captioning), lipreading, oral interpreting, or Signed English. Some Deaf or hard-of-hearing people don’t use sign language at all. 

Assuming that ASL is universally used—or that an interpreter is always the right solution—can lead to frustration and miscommunication. That’s why it’s essential to ask each individual their preferred mode of communication. Providing truly accessible services means respecting those choices, not making assumptions based on hearing status. 

Effective communication access is about individualization and inclusion. Just as every hearing person communicates differently, so does every Deaf or hard-of-hearing person. 

Myth 7: You Don’t Need an Interpreter—You Can Just Write Notes or Use an App  

While writing notes or using translation apps might seem like a quick fix, they’re not substitutes for professional interpreting. Real-time communication involves more than just words—it includes tone, emotion, cultural nuance, and rapid back-and-forth interaction. Apps can mistranslate, and writing slows the conversation, often leading to confusion or loss of meaning. 

Imagine a medical setting where a doctor tells a Deaf patient, “We’re concerned about your test results, but we have treatment options.” A translation app might miss the nuance of concern and reassurance, or worse—translate it inaccurately. The result? Miscommunication with serious consequences. 

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires effective communication—not just any attempt at communication. That means using qualified interpreters when needed to ensure full understanding. 

Myth 8: One Interpreter Is Enough for Any Situation 

It’s a common misconception that one interpreter can handle any assignment, no matter the length or complexity. In reality, interpreting—especially in high-stakes or extended settings—is mentally and physically demanding. That’s why team interpreting is the standard in environments like courtrooms, hospitals, or conferences. 

Team interpreters rotate approximately every 20–30 minutes to maintain accuracy and reduce fatigue. While one interprets, the other monitors for errors, manages logistics, and supports transitions. This ensures clear, consistent communication throughout the event. 

It’s also essential to match interpreters to the type of assignment. Legal, medical, educational, and performing arts interpreting all require specialized training and vocabulary. A highly-skilled interpreter in one setting might not be qualified in another. 

For a visual explanation, check out this team interpreting video. 

Myth 9: All Professional Interpreters Are Hearing 

Not all interpreters are hearing—in fact, Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDIs) play a vital role in many interpreting situations. CDIs are Deaf professionals who are specially trained to work as interpreters, often teaming with hearing interpreters to ensure messages are fully understood, especially in complex or nuanced scenarios. 

CDIs are especially valuable when working with Deaf individuals who: 

• Use non-standard ASL 

• Have limited language access or cognitive disabilities 

• Come from diverse linguistic or cultural backgrounds 

• Are in high-stress settings like court, healthcare, or crisis response 

Hearing interpreters may miss cultural cues or struggle with unique signing styles. CDIs bring shared lived experience and deeper cultural alignment, which can significantly improve communication accuracy and trust. 

To see this in action, watch this Certified Deaf Interpreter Explained video. 

Myth 10: Every Interpreter Can Interpret Anywhere 

Just because someone is a trained ASL interpreter doesn’t mean they’re equipped for every setting. Interpreters have unique strengths, preferences, and experiences that shape where they’re most effective. 

Some excel in fast-paced medical environments, while others thrive in educational settings, theater, or government work. Legal and mental health interpreting, for example, requires not only advanced certification but also deep familiarity with terminology, confidentiality protocols, and emotional dynamics. 

Interpreter preference also matters. A skilled interpreter may choose not to accept certain assignments if the content doesn’t align with their experience or comfort level—this isn’t a weakness, it’s a commitment to ethical, high-quality service. Likewise, Deaf consumers may request interpreters whose signing style or cultural background better aligns with their own. 

Effective communication isn’t just about credentials—it’s about the right fit. 

ASL interpreters play a crucial and multifaceted role in bridging communication between Deaf and hearing communities. Dispelling common myths helps us better appreciate the skill, training, and professionalism involved in interpreting. From understanding the complexity of language and cultural nuances to recognizing the diverse needs within the Deaf community, it’s clear that effective interpreting is far more than simply knowing two languages. 

Respecting the roles and limitations of interpreters—and recognizing the importance of qualified, specialized professionals—ensures that communication access is meaningful and empowering for everyone involved. By moving beyond misconceptions, we can foster better collaboration, accessibility, and inclusion in all settings. 

In the end, informed awareness about ASL interpreting benefits not just Deaf individuals but the entire community by promoting clearer, more equitable communication for all.