Interpretation is one of the most dynamic and demanding branches of translation. Unlike a written translation where the translator has time to analyze and research, an interpreter must make decisions in seconds. Learn how to choose the right method for your event.
What is interpreting?
Oral translation is divided into several basic types, of which the most common are:simultaneous translation i consecutive translation. The choice between these two techniques depends solely on the format of your event, the number of participants and the technical capabilities of the location.
1. Simultaneous translation (Real-time translation)
Simultaneous translationis performed simultaneously with the presentation of the speaker, with a delay of only a few seconds. The translator sits in a soundproof roomtranslation booth, listens to the speaker through headphones and immediately translates into the microphone. Participants in the hall wear wireless receivers and listen to the translation in the chosen language.
Simultaneous translation requires exceptional concentration and mental effort. For that reason,simultaneous interpreters always work in pairs(two translators per language combination in one cabin). They alternate every 15 to 20 minutes to maintain the maximum level of accuracy and avoid mental fatigue that leads to mistakes.
When to choose simultaneous translation?
- For large conferences with hundreds of participants.
- For international congresses and symposiums.
- When an event is translated into several different languages simultaneously.
- When the duration of the event is strictly limited (no time extension due to translation).
2. Consecutive translation (Translation in blocks)
Consecutive translationit means that the interpreter stands or sits next to the speaker, listens carefully to his presentation and takes notes using a special translation shorthand. When the speaker takes a break (usually after a few sentences or a logical unit lasting 1 to 3 minutes), the translator conveys the complete content in the target language based on his notes.
Consecutive interpreting **does not require any technical equipment** (booths, headsets, transmitters), which makes it much cheaper and easier to organize. However, it is important to consider that consecutive interpreting **doubles the duration of the event**, because the speaker and the interpreter speak alternately.
When to choose consecutive translation?
- For business meetings and negotiations in a smaller group of people.
- For press conferences and presentations.
- For opening ceremonies or keynote speeches.
- For machine operator training or field work.
Oral translation with the presence of a court interpreter
A special form of interpretation is translation at official events where the law requires the presence of an authorized court interpreter. These are situations like:
- Signing contracts with a public notary (notary) when one party is a foreign citizen.
- Marriages before the registrar.
- Establishing companies or giving statements to police and judicial authorities.
The court interpreter in these cases, by his presence and signature on the record, guarantees that the foreign party has fully understood all legal actions and the text of the documents being signed.
How to prepare for interpreting?
The success of interpreting depends to a large extent on the preparation of the interpreter. The client is obliged to provide the preparation materials as soon as possible. These materials include:
- Event agenda and list of speakers.
- Presentations that will be shown during the lectures.
- Previous texts, brochures or terminological glossaries on the topic.
- Speech scripts (if the speakers plan to read a pre-prepared text).
Frequently asked questions about interpreting
Yes, professional agencies likeAlpha translationthey offer a complete turnkey service - hiring top interpreters and renting complete equipment (booths, microphones, receivers for the audience, sound system) accompanied by a technician who manages the sound during the event.
The usual billing unit for interpreting is a working day (up to 8 hours) or half a working day (up to 4 hours). Each started block is charged at the agreed price, regardless of whether the interpreter spoke the whole time or was on standby.
Whispering (whispering) is a special interpretation technique where the interpreter sits directly next to one or at most two listeners and quietly whispers the translation directly into their ear during the speaker's presentation. This technique is suitable when only one or two people do not speak a common language in a meeting.