You may already be familiar with some of the different interpreting modes, but are you familiar with others? The types of interpreting you can use in the legal profession range from simultaneous interpretation to whispered interpretation. In this article, we will examine the pros and cons of each. If you are unsure about which type to use, read on to learn more. There are several ways to provide interpretive services, but whichever method you choose, you will always get high-quality translations.
Two Major Types: Consecutive and Simultaneous
There are two major types of interpreting: simultaneous and consecutive. Simultaneous interpreting involves conveying, in real time, what someone is saying from one language to another. That means both the speaker and interpreter are talking at the same time.
Consecutive interpreting is similar to simultaneous interpreting. However, the interpreter and speakers do not speak at the same time; speakers and interpreters wait their turn.
Simultaneous interpreting
The most common application of simultaneous interpreting, also known as conference interpreting, is when a large number of people need to participate in a meeting. Simultaneous interpreting involves working from written text to spoken language, with minimal time lag between the speaker and the interpreter’s voice. A simultaneous interpreter works in a soundproof booth, able to hear the speaker’s voice in headphones while translating almost simultaneously into a microphone.
One advantage of simultaneous interpreting is its immediacy. The interpreter must process the speaker’s speech while interpreting it into the target language. This mode is used in high-profile events, such as board meetings, large conferences, and international court hearings. Often, it requires two interpreters, one for each language combination. Both interpreters must be alert during the speaker’s speech to process the speech as it is said.
Simultaneous interpreting is a relatively newer technique. It is not a replacement for conference interpreting, but it has many benefits. Simultaneous interpreting is faster than consecutive interpretation, and the interpreter does not need to wait for a pause between the speaker and the listener to fully understand his or her message. Simultaneous interpreting is especially useful for large events, like conferences, where participants are expected to understand the message.
The process of simultaneous interpreting requires a team of interpreters, a technician, and specialised equipment. It is important to use soundproof booths when using this mode, as this is crucial for the quality of the final results. Simultaneous interpreting is widely used in international conventions, technical meetings, and international organisations. The simultaneous interpreter sits next to the speaker and takes notes on their words as the speaker speaks.
Consecutive interpreting
The difference between consecutive interpreting and translating is often difficult to grasp, and the terminology is difficult to grasp as well. In the most basic terms, consecutive interpreting is the translation of a speech that has already been given by the delegate in the source language. The interpreter listens to the speech, takes notes, and then expresses it in the target language. Consecutive interpreting is considered to be the more difficult mode, and it is generally used for public service assignments.
In simultaneous interpreting, the interpreter listens to the source-language content, speaks into a microphone, and the target language audience hears what is said through earphones. The interpreter sits in a sound-proof booth. This mode requires a high level of concentration, as it allows the interpreter to translate for only a few moments at a time. The advantage of simultaneous interpreting is that the natural flow of speech is not interrupted.
A simultaneous interpreter can listen and take notes while the speaker speaks, while a consecutive interpreter listens and renders the speaker’s words as soon as the speaker pauses. Consecutive interpreting requires a good memory and fast note-takers. For large meetings, simultaneous interpreting is a better choice. While both modes require a good memory, they are also very different.
Choosing between simultaneous interpreting and translating modes depends on the context of the interpreting event. Simultaneous interpreting is suited for events where large amounts of information are needed, and it ensures that all parties are communicating. It’s ideal for multilingual conferences and courtrooms. It’s also ideal for smaller meetings and conferences, such as business negotiations and lectures. In short, the best use for simultaneous interpreting is when both sides are not in the same language.
Whispered interpreting
A form of simultaneous interpretation that involves a whispering interpreter and a single client, whispered interpreting is an intimate and cost-effective method. This type of interpreting uses no interpreting equipment and is best used when a client and interpreter have a good rapport and do not need to communicate over a loudspeaker. If you need a specialised interpreter for a large conference, then you should consider using simultaneous interpreting or consecutive interpreting.
When compared to simultaneous interpretation, whispered interpreting is cheaper for the client. It does not require special specialised equipment and can be performed with less than one interpreter per language pair. Whispered interpreting is most appropriate for events where there are only two speakers or a small number of foreign language speakers. It is also ideal for small-scale events and can be extremely helpful if you need to translate a large amount of material in one session.
Whispered interpreting requires specific skills and special equipment. While interpreting for a small group of people, it is important to remember that sound is a major consideration, and an interpreter cannot always be completely soundproof. Furthermore, it is difficult to separate the audience from the interpreter if the speaker does not speak clearly. Fortunately, modern equipment and a dedicated mobile radio guide system can solve these problems. It is not uncommon for a client to send background information to an interpreter before the meeting or conference.
Another form of whispered interpreting is chuchotage. A chuchotage interpreter sits next to the speakers, behind them or in between them, and whispers a summary of what they are saying. While whispered interpreting is a temporary solution and should be used when only a few participants are unable to understand the language used at the conference. Additionally, whispered interpreting is usually used in conjunction with simultaneous interpreting to reduce disruption.
A third type of simultaneous interpreting involves the use of structured notes. This type of interpretation relies heavily on notes and requires the interpreter to stand close to the speaker. While the interpreter listens to the speaker in their native language, the speaker must pause to allow the interpreter to deliver the message in the target language. Because of this, the event duration increases and the audience’s engagement decreases. However, the results are not always desirable.
