The 7 Types of Interpretation

Simultaneous Interpretation vs Consecutive Interpretation

Get Your Free Online Quote

Interpreting Types

Day Translations Inc. ranks amongst the leaders in the interpretation industry. Our highly experienced interpreters can provide you both simultaneous and consecutive interpretation services in order to cater to your most specific needs. Consecutive interpreting is a form of interpretation where the interpreter translates speech after the speaker completes each phrase or several phrases.

Simultaneous and Consecutive Interpretations are two different interpreting services we offer and each of them is suitable in specific situations.

Interpreting Types
Simultaneous Interpretation

Simultaneous Interpretation

In a simultaneous interpretation situation, the speaker continuously speaks as the interpreter conveys the message into the target language. There are no pauses. This process often involves translating spoken words from multiple languages into one language, such as English, to ensure clarity and understanding among all participants.
While simultaneously interpreting the interpreter sits in a booth wearing a pair of headphones and speaks into a microphone.

Simultaneous interpretations are most suited for conferences, seminars and other meetings with high attendance and in which a lot of information needs to be accurately conveyed. Simultaneous interpreting requires a high level of concentration. So much so that simultaneous interpreters usually work in teams of at least two language professionals who alternate every few minutes. They work in a sound-proof environment so that they are not distracted with the other languages being used.
Our simultaneous interpreters are highly trained in speaking and listening at the same time and deliver the translated fragment of speech only a few seconds after the original speaker has spoken.

Simultaneous interpreting is required in these situations:

  • Multilingual conferences
  • International arbitrations
  • Diplomatic proceedings

Consecutive Interpretation

In a consecutive interpretation situation, the interpreter interprets the message after the speaker has finished speaking. Once the speaker rounds up an idea or sentence, the interpreter, who is standing or sitting by the speaker listening and taking notes, steps in to render what was said into the target language. Remote interpretation is a broad category that includes various interpreting services conducted where participants are in different physical locations, such as over-the-phone interpretation.

In general, the interpreted fragments are shorter than 10 minutes long as it has been proven that people feels uncomfortable when listening to somebody speaking in a language they don’t understand for long. Our interpreters are highly trained in memory and note-taking techniques that enable them to accurately render fragments of speech as long as 6 or 8 minutes long. Remote interpretation services, including over-the-phone interpreting (OPI), are utilized by public sectors like healthcare and law, though they face challenges such as the lack of visual cues and potential for confusion during conversations.

Consecutive interpretation is especially suited for those situations in which a small number of people are involved or in which a personal touch is required. Amongst the social situations in which a consecutive interpreter can be required we can mention:

  • Business meetings
  • Parent-teacher meetings
  • HR meetings
  • Client-attorney meetings
  • Press conferences
  • Doctor-patient consultation
  • Interviews
  • Court depositions
  • Teleconferences
  • One-on-one exchanges in general
Consecutive Interpretation

Are you in need of on-demand, real-time phone interpreting services?

DayInterpreting is your solution! Our professional interpreters are available 24/7. And it’s easy! Simply create an account and connect instantly to our qualified, screened interpreters. No set-up fee. No monthly minimum.

CHECK IT OUT NOWSign Up for a Free DI Account

Are you in need of on-demand, real-time phone interpreting services?

Whispered Interpretation

Whispered interpretation, also known as chuchotage, is a specialized form of simultaneous interpretation where the interpreter whispers the translation directly into the listener’s ear in their native language. This method is particularly effective in intimate settings such as diplomatic meetings or business negotiations, where only a few individuals require interpretation. Whispered interpretation demands a high level of skill and quick thinking from the interpreter, as they must translate the speaker’s words in real-time without disrupting the natural flow of the conversation. This type of interpretation ensures that all parties can follow the discussion seamlessly, even in a multilingual environment.

Relay Interpretation

Relay interpretation is a collaborative interpretation method used in multilingual settings where no single interpreter is proficient in all the languages involved. In this process, one interpreter translates the speaker’s words into a common language, which is then translated into the target language by another interpreter. This can be done either simultaneously or consecutively, depending on the situation’s requirements. Relay interpretation is essential in international conferences or events where multiple languages are spoken, ensuring that communication remains clear and effective across all language barriers.

Liaison Interpretation

Liaison interpretation is a type of consecutive interpretation where the interpreter acts as a mediator between parties speaking different languages. This method is commonly used in business meetings, negotiations, and other scenarios where precise and clear communication is crucial. During liaison interpretation, the interpreter listens to the speaker, translates their words into the target language, and facilitates a smooth and natural conversation. This requires the interpreter to be highly skilled in both languages and capable of quick thinking to maintain the flow of dialogue and ensure mutual understanding.

Travel Interpretation

Travel interpretation, also known as escort interpretation, involves an interpreter accompanying a client on trips or business ventures to provide interpretation services as needed. This service is invaluable for business travelers, diplomats, and other individuals who require language assistance in a foreign country. Travel interpreters must be adept in both languages and able to think on their feet, as they may need to interpret in a variety of situations, from formal business meetings to casual cultural events. Their role is to ensure that communication remains clear and effective throughout the trip, regardless of the context.

Remote Simultaneous Interpretation

Remote Simultaneous Interpretation

Remote simultaneous interpretation (RSI) is an innovative interpretation method where the interpreter provides simultaneous interpretation services remotely, often through video conferencing or other digital platforms. RSI is gaining popularity due to its flexibility and convenience, allowing interpreters to work from any location while still delivering high-quality interpretation services. In RSI, the interpreter listens to the speaker and translates their words in real-time, just as in traditional simultaneous interpretation. However, the interpreter is not physically present with the speaker and listener, making RSI an ideal solution for virtual meetings, webinars, and international conferences.