Interpretation Modes

The three modes of interpretation are:

simultaneous interpretation.
consecutive interpretation.
sight translation.

Interpreting involves communicating an oral or signed message between parties who do not share a common language. An interpreting mode is the way a message is converted and transmitted from one language to another. There is no best interpreting mode, rather, a mode is selected based on the setting, circumstances and parties involved in the interpreting encounter.

Consecutive Interpreting

Consecutive interpreting is the most common mode of interpreting. In involves rendering a message from the source language to the target language after the speaker/signer has paused. Ideally, the speaker pauses often, keeping his/her interventions short so that the interpreter (who should be taking notes while each party is speaking) can accurately interpret everything. Community interpreters work primarily in consecutive mode because it facilitates direct, dynamic communication among all parties.

Simultaneous Interpreting

Simultaneous interpreting involves rendering a message from the source language to the target language with a only a short delay while the speaker/signer is still communicating his/her message. Conference interpreters work primarily in simultaneous mode because it facilitates faster communication among large groups of people who often need interpreting performed in multiple languages at once. Ideally, specialized equipment, such as headsets, microphones, transmitters and interpreting booths are provided in order to perform simultaneous interpreting under optimum conditions.

I.C.C.A.

Interpretation Modes

Interpretation Modes

Consecutive Interpreting

Consecutive Interpreting

Simultaneous Interpreting

Simultaneous Interpreting

Sight Translation

Sight Translation