Interpretation refers to converting either spoken or sign language from one language to another. There are several types of interpretation, each suited for specific situations:
1. Simultaneous Interpretation
The interpreter converts a spoken language in real-time while the speaker continues speaking.
Best for: Conferences, large meetings, live broadcasts, international summits, and events with multilingual audiences.
Example: The United Nations uses simultaneous interpretation for delegates speaking different languages.
2. Consecutive Interpretation
The speaker pauses after a few sentences to allow the interpreter to convert the sentences before continuing.
Best for: Business meetings, interviews, press conferences, medical consultations, and legal proceedings.
Example: A doctor speaking to a patient through an interpreter in a hospital setting.
3. Whispered Interpretation
The interpreter whispers converting the spoken words to one or two persons without disrupting the main speaker.
Best for: Small meetings, diplomatic visits, or when only one or two people need interpretation.
Example: A business executive receiving real-time interpretation during a meeting.
4. Liaison (Escort) Interpretation
The interpreter facilitates communication between two parties by converting short exchanges between the languages.
Best for: Business negotiations, diplomatic visits, tours, and personal assistance.
Example: An interpreter assisting a foreign delegation during a factory visit.
5. Over-the-Phone Interpretation (OPI)
Interpretation is provided over a phone call, either consecutively or simultaneously.
Best for: Customer service, emergency hotlines, and healthcare settings where in-person interpreters are unavailable.
Example: A 911 operator using an interpreter to assist a non-English-speaking caller.
6. Video Remote Interpretation (VRI)
Remote interpretation via video call is helpful for sign language or spoken languages.
Best for: Legal, medical, and business scenarios where visual context is essential.
Example: A deaf person using an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter via video chat in a courtroom.
7. Relay Interpretation
When interpretation occurs in multiple stages, typically through an intermediary language.
Best for: Conferences with rare language pairs or multilingual events.
Example: A speaker addressing an audience in Mongolian, which is first translated into English and then into Spanish.
8. Sign Language Interpretation
Interpreting spoken language into sign language for deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals.
Best for: Conferences, public events, legal proceedings, and education.
Example: A sign language interpreter translating a political speech for a live television broadcast.
If you need to bridge the language divide and connect with a broader audience, contact us at info@a-zworld.ca or visit www.a-zworld.ca the AZ World team will be happy to assist you.