The ABCs of linguistic transposition

Interpreting vs. Translating

First and foremost, it is important to know if you need a translator or an interpreter. A translator transposes a written text into another language. An interpreter transposes spoken language (such as a speech or conversation) into another language or between two languages.

Interpretation modes

There are two main types of conference interpreting, simultaneous and consecutive: In simultaneous mode, the interpreter interprets and provides the speaker's message into the target language while the speaker is continuously talking. In consecutive mode, the interpreter provides the speaker's message after the speaker has finished speaking.

Click here for an overview of further interpreting modes.

Simultaneous interpreting – how does it work?

Simultaneous interpreting requires certain equipment that enables the interpreter to listen and speak at the same time. Generally, this equipment consists of a permanent or mobile interpreting booth, and earphones for recipients of the interpreted message. The interpreting booth helps the interpreter to avoid distractions and prevents them from disturbing other participants at the meeting.

Due to the high level of concentration and effort required for simultaneous interpreting, the interpreter must be substituted every 20 to 30 minutes. Depending on the length of the meeting, it is thus recommended to ask for a team of two or more interpreters when you make your booking.

Consecutive interpreting

Consecutive interpreting takes place once a speaker has finished giving their entire speech, or a part of it. In this mode, the interpreter renders the corresponding section to the target language with or without notes. Generally, the length of the sections should not exceed five minutes each. Consecutive interpreting does not require any specific technical equipment. It must only be assured that the interpreter is able to hear and see the speaker well.

Comparison: simultaneous vs. consecutive interpreting

Simultaneous interpreting saves time and can be more detailed and complete. However, it requires special equipment. With consecutive interpreting, no special equipment is needed. However, it takes about double the time of the original speech, and may be less detailed or complete, because it relies on the interpreter's capacity to recall what was said several minutes before.

Consecutive interpreting: how long does it take?

As the transposition from the source language into the target language takes place after the original speech, consecutive interpreting usually takes double the time of the original speech. It also may require the interpreter to take notes, depending on the length of the speech or speech sections to be rendered.

Example: The president speaks for a total of 10 minutes, broken up into five segments of two minutes. While the president is speaking, the interpreter listens and takes notes. At the end of each of the president's speech segments, the interpreter delivers the messages in the target language. This takes about the same time as the original speech segment – i.e. five segments of two minutes. Thus, the entire speech including the interpretation takes around 20 minutes.

Usually, a full interpretation is as detailed as the original speech. Interpretations that provide only a brief summary of the original speech (summarising interpretations) can be offered at the client's explicit request.

Whisper interpreting, "chuchotage"

In this interpreting mode, the interpreter simultaneously whispers the interpretation into the ear(s) of one or two (maximum) listeners. The interpreter is placed slightly behind the listeners and talks in a muted voice, in order not to disturb others.

Interpreting using a tour guide system

In certain cases – for example plant or site tours – permanently installed simultaneous interpreting booths and equipment are not appropriate. In these cases, a tour guide system is often used. The interpreter interprets into a microphone using a low voice. Their audience wears earphones, allowing each listener to smoothly follow the interpretation at their desired volume. In essence, this is simultaneous whisper interpreting that is available to a larger audience through the use of technical equipment. Owing to the generally strong soundscape and the extreme level of concentration required by the interpreter, they should switch every 20 to 30 minutes.

Liaison interpreting

In liaison interpreting, usually all participants are seated around a conference table. In this mode, each speaker pauses after a few sentences, and allows the interpreter to render what was said in the target language. This mode is particularly fit for negotiating contracts, as a quick exchange of words is facilitated. In these cases, the interpreter usually renders from the foreign language into their native language as well as from their native language into the foreign language.

Certified translations

Some documents issued by public authorities, or certain contractual documents, require an official confirmation of the correctness and completeness of the translation by the translator. Only translators who are authorised by the appropriate regional court (Landgericht) are able to certify these translations.

As an authorised translator for French into German and German into French, I possess an official stamp and am able to certify translations of your documents in this language pair.