Abstract: A translation apparatus is disclosed for translating words and phrases from a first language into a second language and from the second language into the first language. The apparatus includes a microphone, a receiver and an electronic device which is electrically connected to the receiver for analyzing a series of electronic signals and for generating a first and a second series of impulses. A visual display is electrically connected to the electronic device for receiving the first and second series of impulses from the electronic device and a switching system is provided for selectively switching the visual display between a first and a second mode of operation thereof.