Do you know about the difference between simultaneous and consecutive interpretation?

by Target Language Translation Services

- July 9, 2021

There are two primary modes of interpretation — simultaneous and consecutive. Both are utilized to bridge language and cultural barriers, but it's vital to understand how and when to use both types. If you are not so sure whether to use consecutive or simultaneous interpreting, then this should assist your decision making.

Let’s start off by outlining some critical differences between simultaneous and consecutive interpreting.

The main difference lies in the time lag between the original speech and the interpretation into the foreign language. Simultaneous is “continuous flow” whereas consecutive has a “stop and go” rhythm.

Here are some detailed differences.

Simultaneous interpreting is real-time interpretation: simultaneous interpreters listen to the speaker and speak that message in another language to the audience all at the same time with the voices overlapping (though the speaker’s voice is dominant and the interpreter whispers into a microphone). This type of interpreting is applied mostly for conferences, events, business meetings, and other points where someone is speaking for an extended amount of time without pause. Due to the high register of many speakers we work with, it is ideal for interpreters to review speeches or other materials available before the event to prepare. Due to the strenuous speed of communication, and often high register of speech, simultaneous interpreters work in teams of two or three to not only take turns actively interpreting but also to assist their teammate(s) with difficult phrases or terms. They generally work into their native language, meaning they listen in their second language and render into their native language.

Consecutive interpreting involves a pause between language conversions: first the interpreter listens to the entire original phrase or passage, then interprets it into the other language, and when necessary, takes the answer from the listener to interpret the response to the original speaker. This mode is used for medical or legal settings, with tour groups, or any other area that has less contiguous speaking, opportunities for pauses, and in call/response scenarios. Consecutive interpreting calls for diligence, a steel-trap memory, speedy note-taking skills, impressive linguistic skills, a grasp of subtle nuances in both languages, and a mastery of speaking styles so as to preserve the “flavor” of a witness. Consecutive interpreters typically work alone.

In conclusion, an impressive, yet various, skill set is indispensable to both simultaneous interpreting and consecutive interpreting. Interpreters train for years to serve clients and actively pursue further education throughout their careers as methods change and improve. Whether interpreting simultaneously or consecutively, the interpreters help people communicate around the world.

This article is reprinted from MTM LinguaSoft, GLOBO and LTC LANGUAGE SOLUTIONS.

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