Conference Interpreting Explained
There is a difference between understanding a language and speaking it. The difference lies at the heart of how interpreters classify their working languages. The languages interpreters speak fluently are called their ‘active’ languages.
Those which they understand perfectly but do not speak as fluently are called their ‘passive’ languages.
Interpreters‘ working languages are classified according to three categories – A, B, C:
The ‘A’ language is the interpreter’s mother tongue (or its strict equivalent) into which they work from all their other working languages in both consecutive and simultaneous interpretation. It is the language they speak best, and in which they can easily express even complicated ideas. It is therefore an active language for the interpreter.
A ‘B’ language is a language in which the interpreter is perfectly fluent, but which is not a mother tongue. An interpreter can work into this language from one or several of their other working languages, it is also considered an active language for the interpreter.
A ‘C’ language is one which the interpreter understands perfectly but into which they do not work. They will interpret from these languages into their active languages. It is therefore a passive language for the interpreter.
Source: AIIC website
Photo Pat Guanais
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 or digital technology.
The lesser used ‘whispered’ form of simultaneous interpreting, requires the interpreter to whisper the target language to the client, e.g., for formal dinners.
Consecutive interpreting (interpreting speeches of 5 minutes or more)
In consecutive mode, the interpreter listens to the speaker and then interprets what has been said into another ‘target’ language, using note-taking skills.
Public Service Interpreting / Legal & Medical Interpreting
I am a holder of the Chartered Institute of Linguists’ DPSI qualification, the benchmark qualification for interpreters and translators which are recognised widely in the UK and around the world. I have been tested rigorously and in depth to prove I have the language skills, interpreting techniques and the right approach to take on the most demanding and rewarding public service interpreting assignments. It qualifies me to do vitally important work for police forces, courts, prosecution services, probation, prisons, and health services in the UK.
RSI (Remote Simultaneous Interpreting)
The future is hybrid, and since the pandemic a multitude of RSI platforms have been launched in the interpreting market. Although still far from perfect, they bring the benefit of giving interpreters the possibility to continue working in circumstances when travelling has become difficult or impossible. The objective for me is to continue to set the best quality standard working with RSI platforms. I have experience interpreting using the following platforms: Kudo, Voiceboxer, Olyusei, Zoom, TheSpeech, Webex, MS Teams. I am well-versed in all modes of interpreting.
