Interpretation Services

Simultaneous interpretation is “continuous flow” whereas consecutive interpretation has a “stop and go” rhythm. Simultaneous interpretation is real-time interpreting. Speakers talk as they normally would, without pause, as the interpreter listens to one language and speaks in another, simultaneously, the two voices speaking at once. This is also known as “U.N.-style” interpreting. Simultaneous interpretation calls for extreme concentration, mental flexibility, and wide-ranging vocabulary in both languages. Research has shown that 23 cognitive skills are involved in simultaneous interpreting. Simultaneous interpretation also requires additional equipment in order to transmit the additional languages to listeners.

Consecutive interpretation occurs after each passage of speech and requires pauses between passages for the interpretation to be spoken. First, the interpreter listens to the entire original phrase or passage, then s/he interprets it into the desired language. This mode is often used for Q&A of non-English-speaking witnesses in court. It usually lengthens proceedings by slowing communication as the listeners wait for each language to be spoken before the other language can recommence. Consecutive interpreting calls for excellent short-term and long-term memory, note-taking skills, a grasp of subtle nuances in both languages, and mastery of speaking styles, to preserve the tempo and mannerisms of a speaker.