‘口译’ refers specifically to the real-time oral translation of spoken language from one language into another, without using written text. The first character 口 (kǒu) means 'mouth' or 'oral', indicating speech; the second character 译 (yì) means 'to translate'. Together, they emphasize spoken-language interpretation — distinct from written translation (笔译, bǐ yì). It’s commonly used in international conferences, diplomatic meetings, business negotiations, and medical or legal settings where immediate verbal understanding is essential.

This term is neutral in register and widely understood across formal and professional contexts. Unlike general ‘translation’, 口译 always implies immediacy and auditory delivery: interpreters listen and speak simultaneously or consecutively. It’s a countable noun — you can say 一名口译 (one interpreter) or 两次口译 (two interpretation sessions). While often performed by trained professionals, it may also refer to informal, ad-hoc interpreting among bilingual speakers in everyday situations.