This page explains the various types of interpreting that are listed as options on our Find-a-Linguist directory.
Conference interpreting
Simultaneous interpreting (working in pairs in booths)
In simultaneous mode, the speaker’s language is simultaneously interpreted into one or more other ‘target’ languages using booths, digital technology and headphones; e.g. for conferences/larger meetings.
This lesser used ‘whispered’ form of simultaneous interpreting, requires the interpreter to whisper the target language to the client; e.g. for formal dinners, occasions, during political or business discourse.
Consecutive interpreting (interpreting speeches of 5 minutes or more)
In the lesser used consecutive mode, the interpreter listens to the speaker and then interprets what has been said into another ‘target’ language, using specialist note-taking skills for longer segments of speech; e.g. during business negotiations, presentations, training.
In some settings, the interpreter may be asked to interpret both into and out of the target language, e.g. training seminars.
Business interpreting
Consecutive interpreting
In consecutive mode, the interpreter listens to the speaker and then interprets what has been said into another ‘target’ language, using specialist note-taking skills for longer segments of speech; e.g. during business negotiations, presentations, training.
In some business settings, the interpreter may be asked to interpret both into and out of the target language (liaison), which is outlined below.
Ad-hoc/liaison interpreting
In ad-hoc/liaison interpreting, the interpreter will generally interpret both into and out of the client’s ‘target’ language, using either the consecutive mode or, less commonly, if they are working for only one of several people at the meeting, they may be asked to use the simultaneous whispered mode (outlined below); e.g. smaller meetings/negotiations.
Whispered (simultaneous interpreting)
The simultaneous ‘whispered’ mode is similar to simultaneous interpreting, but instead of using electronic means, the interpreter instantly whispers the interpretation of what is being spoken direct to the client in their own language; e.g. for formal dinners, factory tours, or during one-to-one business discourse.
Specialist legal interpreting
Generally uses the consecutive mode explained above e.g. during a meeting in a solicitor’s or lawyer’s office.
Specialist medical interpreting
Generally uses the consecutive mode explained above e.g. during discussions relating to new drugs or procedures.
Private health interpreting
Generally uses the consecutive mode explained above e.g. during a discussion between a doctor and patient or between other doctors.
Public Service Interpreting
Criminal Justice System (CJS) interpreting
Caters for the following sectors: the Police, Courts, CPS, Probation, Prisons. Both the consecutive and simultaneous (whispered) modes may be used and are explained above.
Local government interpreting
Caters for the following sectors: local government, social services, community services.
Medical interpreting
Public Service medical interpreting would generally take place in the NHS setting and use the consecutive mode, which is explained above, e.g. discussion between a doctor and patient or between other doctors.