A Way With Words
Interpreting
If you are unfortunate enough to catch a cold whilst in Spain, do not be confused if the doctor mentions a word similar to constipated. The word constipado in Spanish means that you have a cold.
Interpreting differs from translation in that it relates to the spoken word only, whereas translation involves the written word.
Interpreting falls into three main categories:
- Ad-hoc
- Consecutive
- Simultaneous
Ad-hoc interpreting
Ad-hoc interpreting is appropriate for business meetings, court proceedings or visits where small groups are involved. No equipment is required and the interpreter passes information between the two parties. This is the most informal type of interpreting and also the most frequently requested.
Consecutive interpreting
With consecutive interpreting, the speaker pauses every few minutes to allow the interpreter, who has been taking notes, to relay the speech to the delegates.
A variation of this is 'chuchotage' or whispering. Here the speaker pauses every so often to allow the interpreter to whisper what has been said to a small group of delegates. The aim of this is to keep the situation as informal as possible. If the group is large, however, or if many different nationalities are present, simultaneous interpreting with the proper equipment may be the more appropriate option.
Simultaneous interpreting
Simultaneous Interpreting is the most formal, expensive and demanding of the three types. The interpreter sits in a booth with headphones and speaks into a microphone.
As this requires intense concentration, simultaneous interpreters often work in pairs and take turns to speak every 15–20 minutes.
The speaker will also require a microphone so that the interpreters can hear clearly. A portable or table microphone may also be needed if there is a question and answer session for the delegates.
First Edition can provide information on companies who supply the necessary equipment.