Consecutive Interpretation
What is consecutive interpretation and how we do it?
Consecutive interpretation, also known as consecutive translation, is a mode of interpretation that does not require translation equipment in face-to-face meetings. The interpreter pauses the speaker's speech to deliver a translation of a segment of the content to the listeners. This process is repeated until the entire message has been conveyed.
How are pauses determined in consecutive translation? How long are they?
The duration of pauses in simultaneous interpreting is typically determined through prior agreement between the speaker and the interpreter. These breaks are strategically planned to allow for interpretation. In some cases, the speaker may pause every two or three sentences, allowing the interpreter to provide the translation. This modality is known as intermittent translation and is commonly utilized in face-to-face events. The duration of these pauses can vary, reaching up to 10 minutes, ensuring effective communication between the speaker and the audience.
When should consecutive interpretation be chosen for an event?
In Brazil, consecutive interpretation has seen a decline in popularity compared to the simultaneous translation booth and portable simultaneous translation equipmentwhich provide the advantage of seamless communication flow between the stage and the audience. However, there are still specific situations where consecutive interpretation shines, making it a suitable choice for events such as:
- Interviews: Consecutive interpretation can be highly effective in one-on-one or small group interviews where participants take turns speaking.
- Press conferences: When addressing the media, consecutive interpretation allows the speaker to deliver their message uninterrupted, while the interpreter conveys the translation to the audience.
- Informal conversations: In casual settings or interactive sessions, consecutive interpretation can facilitate effective communication between individuals or small groups.
- Large-scale events: In events with a vast audience, such as conferences, conventions, or seminars with over 5,000 participants, where using translation equipment for simultaneous interpretation might not be feasible or practical, consecutive interpretation can be a suitable alternative. The interpreter stands alongside the speaker and delivers the translation in a sequential manner, ensuring that the message is effectively communicated to the audience.
Additionally, consecutive interpretation is often preferred in more formal or sensitive situations, such as diplomatic meetings or when a special guest prefers not to use simultaneous interpretation equipment. While the trend may lean towards simultaneous interpretation, consecutive interpretation remains a valuable tool for specific contexts that demand a different approach to language mediation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Simultaneous interpretation is provided at the same time as the speaker is speaking. In a mental process that combines more than five simultaneous operations, the interpreter listens to the speech, mentally translates it into the other language, delivers the translation orally while listening to the next speech and monitors her oral production. This all takes place in a fraction of a second, and enables event attendees to hear the translation through headphones, as if the original lecture were being given in their own language. For the listener of the simultaneous translation, the sensation is of comfort for not having to make an effort to understand the foreign language and the assimilation of the content becomes much easier.
In consecutive translation, the scenario is different. A speaker presents himself on stage, in a foreign language, for a period of time of up to five minutes. Meanwhile, the interpreter listens carefully to the speech and takes notes to reconstruct the speech as soon as the speaker pauses. At that moment, the interpreter, usually standing on stage or speaking with a microphone in her hand, orally transmits the message that was said to the listeners, rereading her notes in order to be able to faithfully reproduce names and numbers.
Through simultaneous interpretation and the Consecutive translationlanguage barriers that separate speakers and listeners at events such as conferences and lectures are overcome. The speeches are understood by all participants, promoting the understanding and active participation of each participant.
In addition to translation and interpretation services, Voicelink provides, through partners, all equipment for carrying out and transmitting simultaneous translation. Everything will be described in two detailed budgets: one that lists the equipment for simultaneous translation, sound (if included), assembly and disassembly services for the translation booth and the technical support team; and another that shows the scope and values for hiring the interpreter team.
At Voicelink Simultaneous Translation, we generally work with carefully chosen translators and interpreters. This often means that we have already been able to witness our interpreters' work in person, by sharing translation booths with them in person. In our evaluation, in addition to the determining factors for the quality of the service provided, such as language proficiency, tone of voice, quality of diction, knowledge of the subject, experience and qualifications, we also take into account your posture, discretion and ethical conduct.
In general, the greater the audience's interaction with the stage, the better their understanding of what is being said. This is the main indicator to watch. In addition, some sound tests are made before starting the event to guarantee the quality of the transmission. We always recommend that our clients listen to a small excerpt of the simultaneous translation to make sure that it is being done with excellent audio quality and with a faithful delivery of the speaker's message.
How much does the face-to-face simultaneous translation and interpretation service cost?
Some factors interfere with the value of contracting the translation and interpretation service. Therefore, it is not possible to measure it accurately without all this information. It all depends on the number of participants, languages, interpreters and event hours. In addition, the format, location and sound system are also considered. To receive detailed information, contact us through our channels:
Call: (11) 91317-7910 | (11) 99982-0712 contato@voicelink.com.br
