Interpreter

in-TUR-pri-tuh /ɪnˈtɜːprɪtə/

Neutral Neutral

What it really means

The NHS can provide a free interpreter (including Mandarin and Cantonese) for appointments — ask the receptionist when you book. It's better than relying on a friend, especially for anything complicated or private.

Chinese explanation

翻译服务：NHS可为就诊免费提供翻译（包括普通话和粤语）——预约时向前台提出即可。比让朋友帮忙翻译更可靠，尤其是涉及复杂或私密问题时。

Example conversation

A: My mum's English isn't strong enough for a medical appointment. B: Ask the surgery for an interpreter when you book — it's free on the NHS.

A：我妈妈的英语应付不了看病。 B：预约时请诊所安排翻译——NHS提供，是免费的。

What you could say back

“Could you book a Mandarin interpreter for the appointment, please?”

Related phrases

Receptionist I'd like to book an appointment

Official sources

Rules and amounts change — confirm important details with the official source.

Go deeper

Dentists and Opticians in the UK: Costs, NHS Bands and How to Get Seen How the NHS Works: Where to Go When You Are Ill in England Mental Health Support in the UK: Where to Turn and How It Works

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Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team · Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake