7 Different Types of Interpretation

Interpreting means translating from one language to another, and there are 7 different types in which it is done. Let’s review these types one by one.

• Consecutive:

In Consecutive interpreting, the interpretation of the said passage is done once the person has finished his/ her speech. Here the interpreter keeps taking notes in short hand so as to translate the full text correctly and accurately once the speech is finished. Consecutive interpreting is the most common type of interpretation.

Consecutive-interpretation-languagers-24-7

• Simultaneous:

In this form of interpretation, the interpreter translates the said words as soon as possible in the desired language. The lag in translation is just a few seconds. This is the most common form of interpretation used.

Simultaneous-interpreting-for-a-conference
Simultaneous-interpreting-in-a-booth-for-an-international-meeting-event

• Whisper:

In whisper interpreting, again simultaneous interpreting is done but directly in the ear of the client so as to not disturb the people, but still make the speech instantly understandable to the client.

Whisper-for-a-seminar-and-conference

• Over-the-Phone Interpretation (OPI):

This kind of interpreting is done over the phone; so all the parties involved do not have face-to-face contact.

• Video Remote Interpreting (VRI):

When interpreting services are provided using the devices like web cameras or video phones from a location other than where the client is present is called video remote interpreting 

• On-Demand Phone or Video Interpretation:

As the name suggests, in this kind of interpretation when someone needs not to have an interpreter at hand at all times. There are specific companies one can call to, from any phone, Ipad or computer with internet access and they immediately put you in touch with their qualified interpreters via phone or video; helping one seek interpretation of more than a 350 languages.

• Scheduled Telephone Interpreting

Scheduled interpretation can be done after a schedule is confirmed with one or more interpreters for a specific date and time and can be either consecutive or simultaneous, depending on the preference and requirements of the client.

• Onstie Interpreting :

One or more interpreters visit an onsite location and interpret in-person face to face with one or more limited language speakers. In some situations, In-Person Interpreting cannot be replaced with phone or video interpretation.

What is the difference between Consecutive and Simultaneous interpreting?

Although continuous and simultaneous are both forms of interpretation, there is a major difference in these types. Let’s have a look at them.

• Time of Interpreting :

Consecutive interpretation is done once the speech is over.

Simultaneous interpretation is done along side with the speech, word after word.

• Duration:

In consecutive interpretation, the time of the program is doubled as the once the original speech is over, the interpreted speech is read out, taking almost the same amount of time as the original speech.

In simultaneous interpretation, because it starts after about 30 seconds of the speech, the lag time of interpretation is very miniscule; therefore almost negligible extra time is taken in winding up a program or meeting.

• Equipment needed:

For consecutive interpretation no additional booth is required as all the interpretation is read out once the speech is over. So there is no way the speaker will be disturbed.

For simultaneous interpretation, the interpreter sits in a booth and starts translating through a microphone. People can hear the interpretations in their headsets, so as to not disturb the speaker.

• Type of Translation :

Consecutive interpretation is more of a literal word-to-word translation of the speech.

Simultaneous interpretation is more of a synopsis and understating of the said words in the speech. It is not a literal translation of what is being said.

• Popular Mode:

Simultaneous interpretation is the more popular form of interpretation today as it helps everyone concerned be on the same page at all times.

Consecutive interpretation is considered to be a classic form, regaled to the past as it has a tendency of prolonging and breaking the rhythm of a meeting.

Today there is a plethora of options available even in the field of interpreting. So choose the mode that best suits your business and prosper well in a global world!

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