ABC of Interpreting

Learn some interpreter jargon!

Modes of Interpreting

Simultaneous Interpretation:
Spoken language is rendered in other languages in almost real time. This requires the appropriate technical equipment.

Consecutive Interpretation:
The speaker and interpreter alternate.

Working Languages

When planning an event we ask the following questions:

  • From which languages is interpreting required?
  • Into which languages is interpreting required?

The answer will determine which working languages you need.

Conference interpreters classify languages as follows:

A-language: Mother tongue or native language;

B-language: Active language. The conference interpreter works from and into this language.

C-language: Passive language. The conference interpreter only works from (not into) this language.

 

Team strength

The number of interpreters required for an event depends on the following factors:

Simultaneous interpretation calls for high levels of concentration, which is why conference interpreters work for slots of 20 to 30 minutes, to maintain professional quality. Interpreters therefore always work in teams of at least two per language.

Technical equipment

For consecutive interpretation the interpreter uses the same equipment as the speaker (e.g. microphone and public address system).

For simultaneous interpretation sound-proof booths are generally used. Simultaneous interpretation equipment also includes interpreter consoles, mixing tables, transmission system, receivers/headsets and microphones. You can find further information here.

Costs

Interpreters are usually paid a daily fee which includes all preparation time as well as the assignment itself. You can find further information on costs here.

Get more information in our FAQs.