Can you imagine a world without language barriers? Well, thanks to interpretation services, communication obstacles can easily be removed. Whereas translation services are all about the written word, interpretation is about spoken language. This process requires various skills, including versatility, interpersonal skills, quick thinking, and, of course, a great deal of linguistic skill. Depending on the specific context, you may choose between consecutive vs simultaneous interpreting. The first question is, what’s the difference?
What is simultaneous interpreting?
Out of the various types of interpretation, it is simultaneous interpreting that provides the most immediate communication, enabling audiences to hear the translated words in real-time. Simultaneous interpreters work at speed, listening to the speaker in the source language and, as the name suggests, simultaneously translating it into the target language. It requires a high level of skill and concentration, to allow the message to be conveyed instantly.
Where is simultaneous interpreting most beneficial?
Simultaneous interpreting is highly effective in settings where instant communication is paramount. A prime example is a large-scale international conference. Here, participants generally come from around the world, with a range of language backgrounds. To keep up with the flow of lectures and speakers, it’s vital each conference participant can access the information in real-time. Here, simultaneous interpreting is ideal, enabling language access for all.
Another high-pressure environment where simultaneous interpreting plays a key role in the world of diplomacy and international relations. Where communication, clarity, and understanding are never more crucial, the skills of simultaneous interpreters really can mean the difference between successful agreements and significant misunderstandings.
What is consecutive interpreting?
Consecutive interpreting is another commonly used type of interpretation, usually found in smaller settings or for contexts with a high level of technical or detailed information. This method is slower and less immediate than simultaneous interpreting, but nevertheless requires key skills to be carried out effectively.
Usually, the consecutive interpreter listens and takes notes (at speed) as the speaker of the source language talks. Then, after the first speaker has paused, the interpreter, assisted by their notes (and excellent memory!) conveys the meaning and details to the speaker in the target language. At this point, the first speaker remains silent.
As well as conveying the message from the source language, consecutive interpreters also forge relationships between the two parties. Although these inevitably hail from different linguistic backgrounds, a key part of the consecutive interpreter’s expertise lies in their ability to make it feel as though both parties are speaking the same language by nurturing a sense of connection and understanding.
Where is consecutive interpreting most beneficial?
This type of interpreting is not suited to large-scale events or fast-paced interviews. Instead, with its focus on creating a sense of rapport, consecutive interpreting is suited to smaller meetings, conversations, or one-to-one interviews. As well as simply translating the spoken words, consecutive interpreters are adept at minimizing cultural differences. Their skills include an in-depth knowledge of both sets of cultures and their expectations, meaning they can also play a role in mitigating any cultural misunderstandings.
This aspect of their expertise means consecutive interpreters are well-suited to assisting during legal proceedings, medical consultations or even parent-teacher conferences.
What are the pros and cons of simultaneous vs. consecutive interpretation?
As you can see, both simultaneous and consecutive interpreting have very different roles to play, with each one eliminating language barriers in very different ways.
First up, let’s explore simultaneous interpreting and its advantages.
- This super speedy method gets rid of the awkward inevitable delay found with consecutive interpreting. In fast-paced settings, such as conferences, trade shows or diplomatic meetings, simultaneous interpreting eliminates those frustrating pauses and ensures all participants are up-to-speed – in real-time.
- Simultaneous interpreting also helps to maintain the natural flow of discussion, allowing for a more natural momentum.
- It’s also efficient – one interpreter can serve multiple listeners, thanks to interpreting equipment such as listener headsets.
- It allows for flexibility, as several interpreters can work at once, translating into multiple languages at once. Soundproof booths cancel out additional noise.
While simultaneous interpreting definitely has significant advantages, there are also some limitations to bear in mind. These include:
- A reliance on interpreting equipment. This requires time to set up and also opens the possibility of technology problems, which could cause issues.
- Expert interpreters are required for these language services. Simultaneous interpreters work under immense pressure, thinking and translating instantly. As such, they can be hard to find.
- They also often work in pairs, enabling each one to take a break. This is particularly necessary during lengthy events, such as conferences or legal proceedings.
- There’s also a risk of reduced contextual understanding. As this form of interpretation does not prioritize building a relationship between speakers, the interpreter isn’t usually able to ask for clarification. This means there is more scope for missed nuances.
- In a similar vein, this limited personal interaction can result in a sort of barrier between the speaker and listener, who can become detached from the process (or develop “listener fatigue”).
How about consecutive interpreting? Let’s take a closer look at the advantages it offers:
- There is no need for complex interpreting equipment. This means no set-up time is required, and the lack of resources means it can be used virtually anywhere.
- It’s more personal. You’ll form a connection with your interpreter, allowing cultural differences to be overcome just as easily as language obstacles.
- It’s a cost-effective option. Thanks to its minimal resources and the fact that usually only one interpreter is required, it often works out cheaper.
- There’s also scope for greater accuracy, thanks to the small pause in communication. This allows for clarification of speaker intent, as well as extra time for the interpreter to digest the overall meaning.
And the disadvantages?
- The process takes longer. Each message must be delivered twice, with a pause in between.
- Because there’s a pause between each speaker, the flow of discussion is inevitably broken up, which can create a disjointed feel.
- It’s less immediate. The audience must wait to hear the translation, creating a slower pace.
- It’s not suited to high-pressure environments such as conferences or fast-paced meetings.
- It works best when only one language is being translated. Otherwise, the different interpreters can create confusion and make it difficult for each one to be clearly heard.
Remote simultaneous interpretation
Remote simultaneous interpretation is, as its name suggests, a type of interpretation that means interpreters can be off-site. This creates numerous advantages and is starting to be adopted by companies and conference or webinar organizers worldwide. One of the primary advantages of remote simultaneous interpretation is the ability to either scale up or scale down services, as well as the fact that interpreters no longer need to reside near the conference or meeting location. It does, of course, rely on a stable internet connection and can be even more prone to the whims of technology, without a back-up team at hand!
Which service is best for you?
There are various factors to consider when weighing up consecutive vs simultaneous interpreting. The scale of the event, languages involved, budget and time constraints all play a part in making this decision. By choosing a service you can count on, you are guaranteed top-notch execution, linguistic expertise and the utmost professionalism throughout the entire interpreting process. What’s more, our flexible and friendly project managers are always happy to advise you on what would work best for your project.
