Simultaneous Interpretation: When & Where to Use

Simultaneous interpretation is one of the most important ways to overcome language barrier in corporate or bureaucratic settings. It is one of the many forms of interpretation that is used to transcend language barriers in a meeting, a discussion or a lecture, etc. In Simultaneous Interpretation the interpreter has to (orally) translate the speaker’s message whilst the speaker is still speaking. The interpreter has to convert source language into the target language while keeping in tact the tone, feeling and emotions of the speaker in the mind, so that target audience doesn’t misunderstand or misinterpret the speaker’s words. We will dwell further into the topic of Simultaneous interpretation and its uses, but first lets understand what interpretation actually is.

What is interpretation?

Interpretation is same as translation but for oral/spoken communication purposes instead of written. It is mostly used by companies as a means to overcome language barrier by translating source language into target language on the spot for the target audience.

Interprets don’t only interpret the language and words but also the tone, the feeling and the emotions that are being conveyed by the speaker. There are several types of Interpretations mainly:

• Simultaneous
• Consecutive
• Whispered

Devices used in Interpretation

The basic devices that are used in Simultaneous Interpretation Systems include -

• Booths
• Microphones
• Transmitters
• Receivers
• Channel Device
• Interpreters

What is Simultaneous Interpretation?

Simultaneous Interpretation involves on the spot, side-by-side, translation of source language into target language while the orator is still speaking. It is the most difficult type of interpretation method/mode. The interpreter needs to pay undivided attention to what is being spoken, grasp the tone and the sentiment the speaker wants to convey, and translate the said words into target language in way that replicates the speaker’s message.

Uses of Simultaneous Interpretation

The main use of any interpretation system is to overcome the language barriers that people may come across during official or bureaucratic meeting. But apart from this, Simultaneous interpretation helps in maintaining the flow of the meeting by avoiding breaks or pauses in between the speeches/lecture. Meetings are supposed be efficient and forward, Simultaneous Interpretation helps people stay focused and organized and in flow with the ongoing process as there is very little delay between the source language and translation of target language.

When and Where to use Simultaneous Interpretation

Simultaneous interpreting is mainly used for Multilingual Conferences, International Conventions, Tours, Business Meetings, Courtrooms, Diplomatic Conferences, Lectures and Presentations, etc