Simultaneous interpretation is the best for conferences like board meetings, certain tour guides, and many more. Plus, it’s so quick and responsive that everyone in London loves hiring its production.
But what is simultaneous interpretation, and why is it so convenient?
Let’s find out.
What is Simultaneous Interpretation?
Its high level of immediacy defines simultaneous interpretation (SI): as the interpreter that translates the speaker’s words into the target language, in which the original speech is still being delivered but virtually in real time.
This type of interpretation is commonly seen at high-profile events, such as the United Nations meetings, European Parliament sessions, and extensive international conferences.
However, simultaneous interpreting is also widely used in smaller settings, such as corporate board meetings, international court proceedings, and business conferences.
In Practice
Mostly under optimal conditions, the simultaneous interpreting follows these processes. The first one is teamwork.
Teamwork: Two interpreters work together for each language combination. They alternate every 20 to 30 minutes. While one interprets, the other supports by organising information, taking notes, and looking up terms.
Equipment: The interpreter works in a soundproof room/booth equipped with a 2-channel audio system. Here’s how it typically works:
- The interpreter listens to the speaker’s words through headphones while the original speech is ongoing.
- Simultaneously, they translate the speech into the target language and transmit it in real time.
- The audience hears the translated speech through wireless headphones with a receiver.
This method is also sometimes used in guided tours, where a wireless tour guide system is untouchable.
Is this the Convenience One?
Without any doubt, it is. It demands a high level of cognitive effort. Interpreters face several key challenges, that includes:
- Time Pressure
- Speed of Delivery
- Terminology
- Accents
- Untranslatable Terms and Expressions
- Lack of Clarification
Time Pressure
It’s very important to keep the gap between the speaker and the interpretation translation short. This is because it’s the most sensitive form of interpretation, and a short pitch is more valuable than a long translation pitch.
Implementing a short translator ensures that the interpreter is perfect and can keep up the speech without losing track. This is why the term “simultaneous” forms the cloud of the translation that happens almost instantly.
Speed of Delivery
Every speaker varies at different paces and clarity. Some speak slowly and clearly, but some are very rushy with their words. It’s the interpreter’s job to adapt to these differences constantly.
Terminology
Because of the immediacy of the task, the interpreters don’t have the luxury of looking up technical terms in a dictionary. While experienced interpreters use various techniques to handle difficult terminology, preparation is key.
Accents
The accents play the game here. The interpreters often encounter a variety of accents, which can pose additional challenges.
Untranslatable Terms and Expressions
Some phrases are difficult to translate even with time to research and when interpreting on the spot. Proverbs, puns, and jokes are especially tricky and are considered some of the biggest hurdles in interpretation.
Lack of Clarification
This interpretation can’t be paused to ask for clarification if they miss or don’t understand something.
Simultaneously, interpreters develop strategies to overcome all these challenges with extensive practice and experience. This skill requires essential training, as the human brain isn’t naturally equipped to perform such tasks effortlessly.
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