Different types of interpreting at Interlingua
We offer the following types of interpreting services
- Consecutive interpreting (delayed)
- Simultaneous interpreting (in real time)
- Whispered interpreting (in real time)
- Remote interpreting / Online interpreting (in real time or delayed)
- Interpreting for hybrid events (in real time or delayed)
What is consecutive interpreting?
Consecutive interpreting is particularly suitable for small-scale meetings, such as bilateral negotiations, business lunches or award ceremonies and opening speeches. In other words, whenever there is a “face-to-face” situation between the parties involved, whether on site or online.
Interpreting takes place after the speaker has stopped speaking, so with a delay. The interpreter begins speaking only after the speaker has paused and then reproduces the content in another language, usually with the help of notes (using a special note-taking technique). You therefore have to take into account that the length of the speech will be doubled or at least extended. The speaker should also pause for the translator at regular intervals. In consecutive interpreting, one interpreter is usually sufficient.
What is simultaneous interpreting?
In simultaneous interpreting, the translation takes place (almost) without a time delay. For a large number of participants (e.g. meeting, congress, conference), technical aids are necessary and, as a rule, an interpreting booth incl. interpreting equipment and headphones. This allows an almost unlimited number of people to listen while the speech is simultaneously translated into multiple languages.
When using simultaneous interpreting for large events, it is also important to note that, due to the high level of concentration required, at least two interpreters must work in one interpreting booth and they must alternate.
What is whispered interpreting?
This type of simultaneous interpreting (= in real time) is suitable for a small audience. If you require interpretation for a maximum of two people, no technology is necessary. The interpreter sits behind or next to the person listening and whispers softly in their ear.
For three or more people, we provide an interpreter’s kit bag: the interpreter whispers into a microphone, the participants listen through headphones. The advantage: whispered interpreting saves space and money and, unlike a booth, is not tied to a fixed location.
Whispered interpreting requires the interpreter to exert a lot of effort; on the one hand because they have to focus on their voice and, on the other because they depend on good acoustics in the room and have to “filter out” background noises. Therefore, whispered interpreting is only possible for a limited period of time. For longer durations, either breaks must be scheduled or two interpreters must be used and they must alternate.
What is remote interpreting or online interpreting?
Remote interpreting means translating via streaming or video. Because an interpreter does not always have to be on site for their assignment. Online interpreting can take place both simultaneously and consecutively, regardless of the number of participants.
For online interpreting or video interpreting, there are now numerous tools and software available, e.g. Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams or Cisco Webex. They make interpreting relatively easy and inexpensive. It is important to have a stable internet connection, good audio quality and knowledge of the software used.
How does interpreting work for hybrid events?
Hybrid events take place in front of a live audience and can also be attended online at the same time. Presenters can also be remote and on site, and the same is true for interpreters. Of course, this variant also makes it possible to interpret both simultaneously and consecutively.
If you are planning a hybrid event, the following information is important for us: the intended arrangement (who will be on site and who will be connected online), the number of speakers, participants and interpreters and what technical resources are already available (event platform, sound equipment, etc.).
See our brochure to learn more about the different types of interpreting and how Interlingua plans and handles your event.
