Types of Interpretation

Types of Interpretation

Simultaneous Interpretation

An almost simultaneous method of interpretation. The speaker can go on talking without pausing to wait for the interpreter. This method requires great skill and concentration on the part of the interpreter. This method is often used at international conferences where multiple languages are required and broadcast content where time is limited.
Where equipment is not available at the venue, the installation of an interpreting booth and interpreting equipment is required.
Usually two or more interpreters are required for half-day sessions and three or more interpreters are required for whole day sessions.
Relay interpretation from languages other than the source are also sometimes an option. For example English->Japanese->Chinese

Examples of where simultaneous interpretation might be used:
International conferences, lectures, seminars, exhibitions, product announcements for the press, HR training including employees from multiple countries, workshops, interviews, business talks, internal meetings, etc.

Consecutive Interpretation

The speaker takes short pauses while speaking to enable an interpretation of spoken content in parts. This method requires more time, but also allows for a more accurate interpretation. This method is often used for business talks, meetings and staff trainings, which require a high degree of specialized knowledge.
One interpreter or more is required for half-day sessions and two or more interpreters are required for whole day sessions.

Examples of where consecutive interpretation might be used:
Business talks, internal meetings, HR training including employees from multiple countries, workshops, opinion exchanges with overseas specialists, lectures, seminars, exhibitions, interviews, product announcements for the press, interpreting attendant, etc.

Whispered Interpretation

Similar to simultaneous interpretation, spoken content is interpreted almost simultaneously with the only difference being that the interpreter whispers the interpretation into the listener’s ear. It is often used at meetings and business talks where only one or two people require an interpretation. Wireless devices are also sometimes used to transmit interpreted content.
One interpreter is used for sessions up to two hours, with two or more interpreters required for sessions longer than two hours.

Examples of where whispered interpretation might be used:
Business talks, internal meetings, opinion exchanges with overseas specialists, interviews, etc.

Interpreting Attendant

An interpreting attendant travels with the client within Japan and supports him or her with regards to everyday needs.

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