Interpreting Modes

There are several different interpretation modes. One can interpret a speaker almost in real-time, which is called simultaneous interpreting or interpret a speaker when the speaker makes pauses or breaks between sentences.  In other words, the interpreter listens and then interprets it. This method is called consecutive interpreting.

Simultaneous interpreting

the most appropriate interpreting mode at international meetings and conferences. In simultaneous interpretation, the interpreter renders the message in the target language as quickly as he or she can formulate it from the source language, while the source language speaker continuously speaks. Two interpreters per each language combination are assigned for simultaneous interpreting.

Consecutive interpreting 

in consecutive interpreting, the interpreter speaks after the source-language speaker has finished speaking. The speech is divided into segments, and the interpreter sits or stands beside the source-language speaker, listening and taking notes as the speaker progresses through the message. When the speaker pauses or finishes speaking, the interpreter then renders the entire message in the target language.

If consecutive mode is selected it is important to allocate sufficient time for the presentation and to inform the speaker accordingly.

Whispered interpreting

in whispered interpreting the interpreter sits or stands next to the small target language audience whilst whispering a simultaneous interpretation of the matter to hand; this method requires no equipment. Whispered interpreting is used in circumstances where the majority of a group speaks the source language, and a minority (no more than two persons) does not speak it.

Sign-language interpreting

Sign language interpreting is the use of a sign language to convey the information contained in the program audio (speech and other important sounds) to viewers who are deaf and for whom sign language is their first language. Sign languages use hand and finger shapes, movement, body language, and facial expressions to convey meaning. Sign languages differ from country to country.