Looking for interpretation services for an event or conference? Let us guide you through the diverse array of interpreting services, and help you understand the nuances between simultaneous and consecutive interpretation, so you can determine the best fit for your needs.
Firstly, it’s essential to clarify what interpretation means and how it differs from translation services.
While both translation and interpretation services are means of conveying information from one language to another, they differ significantly in their methods. Translation typically involves converting written or pre-recorded content from one language to another, while interpretation deals primarily with real-time spoken language. This means interpreters hear the words only once, without the option of rewinding for a repeated listen. Interpretation can take place in various settings – face-to-face, telephonically, or even in a video conference, spanning from one-on-one interactions to large-scale conferences.
Consecutive Interpretation
In a more intimate, conversational setting, consecutive interpretation takes center stage. Imagine two business associates who don’t share a common language – a consecutive interpreter steps in, allowing the conversation to flow seamlessly. The interpreter listens to the first person, translates their speech into the other language, and then repeats this process for the second person. This type of interpretation requires expert training and a personal touch for effective, high-quality results. It may not be as demanding as simultaneous interpretation but it still calls for a keen ear and sharp mind.
Depending on the context and formality of the conversation, the length of the speech segments that the interpreter translates may vary. Expert interpreters employ specialized memory and note-taking techniques to translate longer speech segments effectively.
Consecutive interpretation also extends to phone interpretation, facilitating cross-linguistic conversations over the phone. This method is most effective in scenarios involving fewer participants, like business meetings, press conferences, interviews, or any one-on-one discussions. In this setting, the interpreter stands close to the conversing parties and does not require special audio-visual equipment.
Simultaneous Interpretation
On the grander stage of large conferences, where swift and massive information exchange is required, simultaneous interpretation is most beneficial. The UN, for example, uses this method. Here, the interpreter, stationed in a separate booth, listens to the speaker via a headset, interprets their words into a microphone, which then broadcasts to the audience through wireless headsets.
The complexity lies in the fact that the speaker continues their speech without pause for the interpreter. Thus, the interpreter must process and translate the speech in real-time without missing crucial information. This requires significant training and the right technical setup to ensure superior results.
“Whisper interpretation” is a related variant, where the interpreter quietly translates the speech to a single individual concurrently with the speaker. It’s particularly useful for a foreign business person attending a conference where they are the only non-native speaker.
Freelance Interpretation Insights Much like translators, professional freelance interpreters often focus on specific subjects or sectors to ensure familiarity with all relevant terminology. Their language proficiency usually extends to two or more languages, and they work both into and out of their mother-tongue. However, in situations like conference interpreting, where the interpretation flows in one direction, they may interpret into their mother-tongue only.
Most interpreters prefer to work within a certain radius of their home base, but some are open to travelling as “escort interpreters,” accompanying individuals or delegations on tours, visits, meetings, or interviews.
Interpreter Certification While there’s no universally accepted certification agency for interpreters, bodies like the International Association of Conference Interpreters (AIIC) regulate conference interpreters.
Different countries and regions might have their unique certification standards. Typically, possessing a degree from a university program is regarded as a tacit certification for conference interpretation.
