Simultaneous and consecutive language interpretation services and their difference

Communication among the nations is an important factor that helps each country to develop and progress economically. No wonder, then, that interpretation services have helped assert the world position of that country for a long time. Interpretation services are also becoming more and more popular in the USA due to the fast-developing economy.

What is simultaneous language interpretation?

Simultaneous interpretation means that the interpreter listens to a speaker and delivers his or her interpretation at the same time.

Simultaneous interpretation is used when many people speak at once and need to communicate in real time with each other. It is often used at conferences, meetings or negotiations when two or more parties need to communicate quickly with each other.

This type of interpretation is used when there is no time to wait for written interpretations or when it is not possible to use interpretations.

What is consecutive language interpretation?

Consecutive interpretation means that the interpreter listens to a speaker and waits until he or she is finished before delivering his or her interpretation.

Consecutive interpretation is used when one speaker talks at a time, but there's no opportunity for anyone else to speak until after their turn has passed. This type of interpreting is commonly used during press conferences or interviews where only one person speaks at a time (although sometimes two people will speak).

Consecutive interpreting is most commonly used for situations where there are multiple speakers who need to be understood by an audience with only one interpreter present.

Difference between simultaneous and consecutive interpretations

The difference between simultaneous and consecutive interpretations can be confusing because both are forms of interpreting. How they differ depends on the purpose of the interpreting session. Also, the difference between simultaneous and consecutive interpretation is the way in which the interpreter delivers the message.

Simultaneous Interpretation

Simultaneous interpretation uses a microphone and headphones to broadcast the message in real-time. The interpreter listens to the speaker, then speaks into the microphone while simultaneously listening to their own voice through headphones.

Consecutive Interpretation

Consecutive interpretation requires an interpreter to listen to a speaker and then translate that message into another language. This can be done either orally or in writing (e.g., by taking notes). When delivering consecutive interpretations, it's important for interpreters to maintain eye contact with both parties so that they can read their body language and facial expressions.

The work of interpreters in consecutive and simultaneous interpretation services

Simultaneous interpretation services

In simultaneous interpretation, an interpreter sits in a soundproof booth and wears a microphone headset. The interpreter listens to the speaker, then repeats what they hear in another language into a microphone. As soon as the speaker pauses, this new message is broadcast over speakers in the room. The audience hears both messages together, but they are not confused by hearing two voices at once because they know it is just one person speaking both languages at once (that's why it's called "simultaneous").

Consecutive interpretation services

In consecutive interpretation, an interpreter sits with an audience who speaks only one language and repeats what they hear in another language for them to hear - usually after each sentence or phrase from the speaker has been completed.

Situations when you need simultaneous interpretation

If you're planning on hosting a conference or event in a foreign country, you'll probably want to hire someone to interpret. The problem is that most venues don't have interpreters on staff. You'll need to find one elsewhere.

There are many different types of simultaneous interpretation services, and each one is appropriate for different types of events and audiences. Here are some good places to start

• Interviews and speeches where content is complex and subject to frequent changes. Simultaneous interpreters can keep pace with speakers, even when they make unexpected remarks or digress from the script.
• Meetings where participants are unfamiliar with one another's language. Simultaneous interpreters can help break the ice and facilitate communication between parties that have not previously worked together.
• Conferences, seminars and trade show where there are multiple simultaneous sessions taking place in different locations. Simultaneous interpreters can provide attendees with a central hub of information as they move between sessions.
• Large-scale meetings involving multiple languages. Simultaneous interpreters can ensure that all participants receive an accurate translation of everything that is said in their own language during the event.
• Business meetings. If your event involves business dealings between two companies, it's best to hire an interpreter who has experience with business meetings. Or you need to conduct business meetings in multiple languages.
• Celebrations and ceremonies. If you're hosting something special like a wedding or anniversary celebration, it may be worth hiring an expert in this area if possible.

Situations when you need consecutive interpretation

The need for consecutive interpretation is usually associated with one of the following situations:

• Medical appointments – a patient who does not speak English is scheduled for an appointment at a medical facility that does not have staff members who are fluent in their language.
• Legal proceedings – a person who does not speak English is involved in a legal proceeding and needs to understand what is happening in court or tribunal hearings.
• Emergency situations – a non-English speaking person has an emergency situation and must communicate with first responders or hospital staff members who do not speak their language.
• Social events where there are many people speaking at once (e.g. conferences).
• Business meetings.
• Immigration hearings.

You can also use an interpreter to help you with everyday tasks such as shopping or taking public transport.

Conferences, symposiums, business meetings or other public events often require professional simultaneous and consecutive interpretation. This article is a reminder that the necessity of interpreting has not changed with the passage of time, and will continue to exist.