We understand that knowing exactly what you need in a translation project, interpreter or language project isn’t always clear. We are here to help!

We invite you to read through any of the sections below to see our most frequently asked questions about our interpreting services, translation services and training services. And please, don’t hesitate to reach out if you don’t get the answer to your question. We’d love to chat!

What makes Metaphrasis different than any other language company?

We don’t have clients, we have partners. Because we believe true partnerships is what leads to success for all. We pride ourselves on providing professional, quality language services, but above all we value the partnerships we make with our clients around translation and interpreting experiences. We seek to partner with organizations who believe what we believe – that Everyone Deserves to Be Understood. Committing to a partnership is not something we take lightly. When you entrust your interpreting and translation business to us, we in return, offer an uncompromising commitment to reliability, professionalism, understanding, integrity and value.

How do you ensure quality in your interpreting and translation services?

Metaphrasis is a leading Chicago interpreting and translation company. We only utilize the most qualified interpreters and translators.  Our onboarding process is rigorous and inclusive of verification of trainings, experience, references, interview process, background checks, proficiency and much more.

Metaphrasis also provides trained client experience representatives that will personally identify the best professional linguist to fit the need of each individual request based on various perimeters set forth within our quality standards.

Do I need a contract to secure services?

Metaphrasis is happy to serve clients with no service agreement in place. Non-contract clients will be required to pay for the professional services in advance of the service date.

How do I request an interpreter?

The first step is to call our office at 815-464-1423 or to submit an inquiry form.

A Metaphrasis client experience representative will call you and guide you through the rest of the process.

What information should I have available when I request an estimate or interpreter?

Metaphrasis is happy to serve clients with no service agreement in place. Non-contract clients will be required to pay for the professional services in advance of the service date.

This will vary depending on the type of event/project. However, Metaphrasis will ask general questions such as:

  • Your contact information including, phone, email, organization name and billing info.
  • Service location
  • Language needed
  • Date and time of event
  • Type of interpreting session and industry
  • Who and how many attendees will be needing interpreting services

What languages does Metaphrasis offer for onsite interpreting?

Metaphrasis provides interpreting in over 35 face to face foreign languages as well as American Sign Language in the Chicagoland area. Additional languages are available for out of state events.

Please contact Metaphrasis with your language needs at 815-464-1423 or online and we will be happy to answer any questions you have.

Do I need a contract to secure translation services?

Metaphrasis is happy to serve clients with no service agreement in place. Non-contract clients will be required to pay for the professional services in advance of the service.

Can I request an estimate before requesting a translation?

Yes. Metaphrasis will provide a no obligation estimate for your approval prior to starting a translation project. Just upload your file and complete the requested questions. If you prefer to speak with a Metaphrasis client experience representative, contact us at 815-464-1423.

What languages do you provide translation services for?

Metaphrasis provides translation services in over 180 languages.  We have a national team of qualified translators with various subject matter expertise. Our team is ready to provide professional translation services for your personal projects or business needs.  Contact Metaphrasis and one of our project managers will be happy to assist, 815-464-1423.

When is your next class?

Classes are conducted quarterly and on the weekends during the (Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter). Actual dates, when available, will be posted on our website. To stay in the loop with new announcements about upcoming training classes, be sure to join our mailing list.

How many hours does the training take?

Our class consists of 48 hours of in-class training. The 48 hours are spread out over 3 full weekends starting at 8:30 am and ending at 5:00 pm.

How do I get more information about what I need to know?

The first step is to submit an inquiry form. Be sure to provide your contact information in the form. Information on the medical interpreter training will be emailed to you. You may also contact us at 815-464-1423.

Do I need any qualifications to take the medical interpreter training?

Yes. We will qualify you ahead of time both for written and oral proficiency in the language you will be interpreting in. The exam will be at our office. To plan accordingly, we suggest you study basic medical terms for the written exam. The oral exam is not medical specific but, will be administered in the language you will be interpreting in.

Am I certified when I complete the class?

Upon successfully completing the training, you will receive a certificate of completion for the 48 hours of training. This does not mean you are certified. Please visit http://www.certifiedmedicalinterpreters.org or http://www.cchicertification.org for more information on becoming certified.

Do you conduct group trainings?

Metaphrasis conducts group trainings for a class size of six or more. The class can be customized to meet your objectives. Please call us to discuss your objectives and let us share what we can do for you.

How can I best implement a language service plan, budget or service agreement for the school year?

Don’t wait until the need for an interpreter or a translator arises. PLAN AHEAD. Metaphrasis can provide a free consultation to help you assess your language service needs and help you put a cost-effective budget into action with a customized plan to meet your objectives.

What types of services are available for interpreting and translation in education?

Different types of services are best suited for different settings. Metaphrasis can advise you on the most effective use and comprehensive plan for your particular school or district.  Incorporating foreign language translations, interpreting, staff trainings and professional development opportunities are some of the ways Chicago schools can boost compliance and family experience. Metaphrasis helps school districts enhance communication at:

  • Individualized Education Program meetings
  • Parent teacher conferences
  • Counseling sessions
  • Enrollment
  • In-class student support services
  • Written communications including consent forms and assessments, staff trainings

Don’t wait until the need for a school interpreter or a translator arises. PLAN AHEAD. Metaphrasis can provide a free consultation to help you assess your language service needs and help you put a cost-effective budget into action with a customized plan to meet your objectives.

What is VRI?

Location, timing and access should never be barriers for being understood. Video remote interpreting (VRI) empowers you to provide outstanding service and exceptional care, to the Limited English Proficient and the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing. VRI provides a one-touch access to trained professional video interpreters on your MAC/PC, tablet or smartphone, while facilitating full understanding through spoken and visual communication.

What types of services are offered through VRI?

At the touch of a button you can have access to:

  • Video offered in the top 36 languages covering 98% of demand
  • Audio-only interpreting available 24/7 in more than 240 languages
  • On-demand access to nearly 9,000 professional linguists
  • Qualified, tested and monitored interpreters with industry-specific training
  • Nationally certified American Sign Language interpreters
  • High quality video and audio complies with ACA Section 1557
  • 30 second connection time
  • 24/7 tech support

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