You know you need interpretation services, but what kind? Maybe you’ve got a meeting or you’re attending a conference in another country, or perhaps you’re in a multicultural part of your own country with customers or clients that speak in different languages.
Either way, you’re going to need the help of an interpreter or a team of interpreters.
The two main types of interpretation are simultaneous and consecutive. The chances are that one of these two will suit your needs. As a Language Service Provider (LSP), it’s our job to explain the best solution to our clients.
If you’re looking to engage an LSP, or are looking at any interpretation requirement, here’s our quick guide on the difference between the two main types of interpretation so you can have a clearer picture of which is best for you.
What’s the Difference Simultaneous and Consecutive Interpretation?
Let’s start with a brief definition of simultaneous and consecutive interpretation and then we’ll look at the pros and cons and which situations suit each one.
- Simultaneous interpretation – This is where the interpreter works in real time. They interpret without the speaker needing to be interrupted.
- Consecutive interpretation – The speaker talks, and when they are finished or take a break in their speech, the interpreter translates what has just been said.
Simultaneous Interpretation
The Pros
Simultaneous interpretation is great for formal settings and live events. Whatever the situation, the event can run as planned without interruption from interpreters.
Simultaneous interpretation settings can be interpreted into multiple languages at the same time, great for international conferences or diplomatic conventions.
The speed at which this type of interpretation occurs means the accuracy is often greater, and messages are not lost.
The Cons
It’s tough on interpreters. The human brain gets exhausted quickly when trying to listen and speak at the same time. For this reason, often, two interpreters will be needed as they can only work in 20-30 minute intervals.
Two interpreters can mean twice the cost. It also typically requires equipment such as microphones, headsets, and sound-proof booths so that the speaker isn’t interrupted and multiple languages can be interpreted at the same venue.
The Right Time
The best times to employ simultaneous interpretation are:
- Conventions
- Conferences or large events
- Business meetings or presentations where you have little or no control over the speed of proceedings
- Courtrooms
Consecutive Interpretation
The Pros
When you have more control of a situation, for example, in one-on-one or small group interactions, consecutive interpretation is a better solution. It allows you to interact in a conversation or business meeting like you normally would in your own language.
You don’t need any special equipment, just the interpreter, and they can drive the speed of the conversation, ensuring it isn’t moved on until both parties fully understand each other.
Also, with a consecutive interpreter by your side, you get the advantage of having someone with on-the-ground knowledge, so they can also help you with etiquette and local customs.
The Cons
It takes longer. Typically, twice as long because everything is said twice. It’s not a natural feeling conversation, because the participants can’t just flow one after another.
There's more time to lose your train of thought, and you have to structure questions or responses in bite-sized chunks, which is not always natural, especially if what you're talking about needs additional context or a back story.
Finally, you’re limited to a single language. Consecutive interpretation doesn’t suit multiple languages because the delay in the conversation would increase and multiple interpreters would be required, which makes situations difficult to manage.
The Right Time
Consecutive interpretation lends itself to the following scenarios:
- Business or personal meetings where you’re in a position of control
- Any logistical situation when traveling in a foreign country, such as in restaurants, taxis or public transport, hotels, shops, airports, etc.
- Legal depositions, interviews, or meetings
- Medical consultations
What’s Best for You?
Weigh up your needs. What’s the event? Are there hundreds of people there, or are you one-on-one? Are you in a conversation, or are you just listening? How much do you need to interact? How much control do you have? Are you out and about in a city where you need local knowledge?
Still not sure? Or do your needs fall somewhere in between? Then a good LSP will help you figure out exactly what you need or come up with a bespoke solution for you. Lean on them, that’s what they’re there for.
Get a Quote for Your Interpretation Needs
Understanding the differences between simultaneous and consecutive interpretation helps you make better choices for your events.
Simultaneous interpretation works well for large, fast-paced events like conferences, where keeping things moving smoothly is important.
Consecutive interpretation is best for smaller, more controlled settings, such as business meetings or medical consultations, allowing for clear and thoughtful exchanges.
This knowledge lets you choose the best interpretation method, ensuring that communication is clear and accurate. To help you further, download our "Choosing an LSP Checklist." This guide will show you how to pick the right Language Service Provider for your needs.
Ready to take the next step? Contact LinguaLinx for a free consultation and quote. With our ISO 17100 and ISO 9001 certifications and over twenty years of experience, you can trust us to handle your multilingual communications with care.
