yleissanankielisenä

yleissanankielisenä is a Finnish term that translates to "as a general interpreter" or "acting as a general interpreter." It refers to a situation where someone is providing interpretation services without necessarily being a certified or officially accredited interpreter. This could occur in informal settings, such as helping a friend or family member who speaks a different language, or in situations where a professional interpreter is not available or required.

The term implies a functional rather than a professional capacity. While a general interpreter aims to convey meaning accurately, they may not have the specialized training, vocabulary, or understanding of ethical guidelines that a certified interpreter possesses. This can be important in contexts where precision and neutrality are paramount, such as legal proceedings, medical consultations, or official business.

In Finland, the distinction between a general interpreter and a sworn or certified interpreter is significant. Sworn interpreters have passed rigorous examinations and are officially recognized by the state, allowing them to provide legally binding interpretation. Using a general interpreter in situations requiring official interpretation could lead to misunderstandings or legal complications. Therefore, while serviceable in informal contexts, the term yleissanankielisenä highlights a level of interpretation that may not meet professional or legal standards.