Interpretation is frequently confused with translation. As a reminder, translating only concentrates on written texts, whereas interpreting is entirely limited to oral conversations.
It is clear that interpreters are not always to be found in a small booth with headphones on and a microphone when it comes to interpreting. In fact, interpreting services offer lots of variables, but the two primary types of interpretation are consecutive interpretation and simultaneous interpretation . Understanding both interpretation techniques is crucial to determining which will best meet your objectives.
So now, let’s identify the difference between simultaneous interpretation and consecutive interpretation and see which one is better for you!
Simultaneous Interpretation
Simultaneous interpreting, as the name implies, involves listening to what is being said in one language while simultaneously speaking it in another.
Whoever is giving the presentation requires a microphone. The microphone will likely be connected to some loudspeakers so that everyone in the room can hear what is being said, but it will also feed into the interpreters’ headphones.
In the back of the conference room, there will often be a soundproof booth where the interpreters will be stationed. They may hear the presentation there without being constantly interrupted. The interpreters listen to what is being said and then translate it into a different language at the same time.
Those who cannot fully understand the presentation are wearing headphones that receive audio from the interpreters through a microphone that is fed into the venue.
When speaking in front of an audience, simultaneous interpreting is most effective; nevertheless, it is less effective when used in informal settings.
The following situations call for simultaneous interpreting:
- Board meetings
- Courtrooms
- Diplomatic meetings
- International summits
- Tours
- Lectures and presentations
Consecutive Interpretation
Regularly, the consecutive interpreter listens intently to every word being spoken, takes notes, and waits patiently for their turn to speak. They translate everything after the speech into a different language.
As a result, a consecutive interpreter must possess exceptional note-taking abilities in addition to language and interpretation abilities. An interpreter who interprets consecutively must grasp shorthand since few people are able to recall a complete paragraph after hearing it just once without losing significant detail.
Consecutive interpreting is the preferred method for medical interpretation since precision and intent are more crucial than speed and efficiency.
It is a common choice for both formal and informal gatherings, and it would work well in the following scenarios:
- Meetings with human resources
- Parent-teacher meetings
- Interviews
- Depositions in court and client-attorney conferences
- Medical consultations
Simultaneous Interpretation vs. Consecutive Interpretation – What Should You Choose?
Prioritizing what is most important to you in your interpretation will help you decide which technique of interpretation will best suit you and your needs.
Simultaneous interpretation allows you to feel as though the dialogue is taking place in real-time while also saving a significant amount of time. However, you must account for interpreter tiredness and the expense of the necessary equipment (sound booth, headphones, microphones, etc.). Due to how exhausting simultaneous interpreting can be, two interpreters are frequently needed so they can alternate shifts.
Consecutive interpreters can take a little bit longer to get everything right before transmitting the interpreted message since they have considerably more control over the words they are translating. However, this can imply that getting your translation would take a lot longer.
Simultaneous interpretation is king in today’s fast-paced corporate world because few professionals can afford to waste time. Although it takes a lot longer to complete, consecutive interpretation is more accurate and cost-effective.
TRANSCREATIO promises to provide the most suitable interpretation solutions
As a language service provider with expertise in both languages and cultures, TRANSCREATIO is confident in offering customers a reliable interpretation solution. No matter which type of interpretation you choose, simultaneous interpretation or consecutive interpretation, we are committed to bringing success to your events.
Contact us for in-time consultation at: Contact Us or our hotline: +84 936 063 012.
