Simultaneous Interpretation

Simultaneous interpretation sometimes referred to as Conference interpreting, is when the interpreter speaks almost at the same time as the individual is speaking with a short 2 –3-word lag and it almost always involves the use of technical aids. The interpreters, who usually work in pairs, enter a sound proof booth or use a tour guide system (portable equipment), from which with the use of a headphone they can listen to the content spoken in the source language before broadcasting the interpreted version in the target language via the microphone to the delegates’ headsets.

This mode is most commonly seen at large conferences, international meetings, European Works Councils, United Nations, parliamentary meetings and other events. This provides a mostly painless and efficient solution for interpreters and listeners alike, with multiple delegates able to listen to the same interpreter without affecting the flow of the debate

Whispering /Chuchotage interpreting

Whispering is perhaps the style most akin to the simultaneous mode, though it differs from the latter in one fundamental way – the interpreter has no technology at his or her disposal, and instead whispers towards the listener’s ear. It tends to be used most often in bilateral meetings, such as discussions between politicians,  and some business meetings.

Consecutive Interpretation

Unlike the above two modes of interpreting, the consecutive style is not real-time – the speaker and interpreter quite literally take turns to talk, with the former stopping every few minutes in order to allow the latter to render the preceding statement into the target language. Interpreters working in the consecutive mode must take notes to allow them to accurately track critical information such as names, dates, and times.

This mode is widely used during conference calls, business meetings, court proceedings, medical appointments and various public service interpretations.