Types of Interpretation
Simultaneous Interpretation
This is an interpretation method in which listening and translating are done almost simultaneously.
As it requires a high level of concentration, several people are assigned to the job at the same time, taking it in turns to translate for approximately 15 to 30 minutes at a time.
The interpreter listens to the speaker via headphones and interprets through a microphone. The audience hears the interpretation through receivers. By using the appropriate equipment, we can deliver stable interpretation audio.
- Merits: Does not interrupt the flow of meetings or events, allowing for significant time savings.
- Demerits: Requires highly skilled interpreters with intense concentration, which can lead to higher costs. Sharing materials in advance is essential for highly specialized fields.
- Suitable Situations: Large-scale conferences and lectures with time constraints, situations where real-time information delivery is crucial.
Consecutive Interpretation
In this method, the interpreter translates the statements in segments, as the speaker is pausing.
Consecutive Interpretation features better accuracy in communication than Simultaneous Interpretation since more careful interpretation is possible. Also fewer interpreters are needed, which can help contain costs.
The speaker and the interpreter take turns at contributing: speaker speaks > interpreter interprets > speaker speaks > interpreter interprets.
- Merits: Enables accurate conveyance of spoken content and facilitates deeper understanding between the speaker and the interpreter. May be more cost-effective compared to simultaneous interpretation.
- Demerits: Interruptions occur after each segment of speech, which can lengthen the duration of meetings or events.
- Suitable Situations: Small-group business negotiations, meetings involving critical decision-making, Q&A sessions, legal and medical settings where accuracy is paramount.
Whispering Interpretation (Chuchotage)
This is an interpretation method in which the interpreter whispers the translation close to the 1 or 2 people requiring it. It is categorized as simultaneous interpreting, and for longer sessions, multiple interpreters may be required.
- Merits: No special equipment is required, and it can be arranged relatively quickly. Provides personalized interpretation for a small number of specific listeners.
- Demerits: Physically demanding for the interpreter and not suitable for long sessions. Can be easily affected by surrounding noise, making it difficult to hear. The number of listeners who can receive the interpretation is limited.
- Suitable Situations: Small business meetings with a single foreign guest, personalized tours for VIPs, supplementary interpretation for specific participants in meetings or site visits.
