Services > Interpretation Services >Types of Interpretation 

Types of Interpretation
​- Spoken Languages 

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Consecutive Interpretation

Consecutive interpretation is a form of interpretation where the interpreter waits for the end of a phrase, sentence, or even a paragraph before interpreting what the speaker has said into a different language. 

Consecutive interpreters take notes during the speech to aid memory and the interpretation is usually quite accurate. 

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How Equipment Works (Click above to enlarge.)

Simultaneous Interpretation

In Simultaneous Interpretation, the interpreter speaks quietly into a microphone at the same time as the speaker talks. His words are transmitted wirelessly to audience member headsets, and unlike with consecutive interpretation, the speaker is never interrupted. The interpreter works at the same speed as the speaker, rephrasing as necessary to convey the speaker's meaning. 

Simultaneous Interpretation is is often used in situations where audience members speak many different languages, as at the United Nations, international business conferences, training sessions, or in situations where only a few members of the audience need interpretation. 

A benefit to simultaneous interpretation is that audience members hear the content at the same time as they see the speaker's facial expressions and gestures, often resulting in a better overall experience. Additionally, because the presentation is never interrupted for the interpreter, the presentation time is not extended as it is in consecutive interpretation.

Booths
For meetings and conferences, booths are normally required for simultaneous interpreting to insulate simultaneous interpreters' voices from mixing with the presenters' voices. Two types of booths are available to choose from: tabletop and floor. Tabletop booth is portable and easy to transit between venues. Its dimension is 4 feet by 2 feet and fits compact space. Floor booth provides even better acoustic. With a more formal looking, its dimension is 6 feet by 6 feet.

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Tabletop Booth

Floor Booth

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Remote Interpretation

Remote interpretation can be two-way or a conference call with multiple people. The interpreter listens to the conversation and translates consecutively or simultaneously. Often the interpreter is at a different location than the primary callers. Remote interpretation can be done on the phone or an audio/video communication APP.

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Escort Interpretation

Escort interpretation is when a group or individual on a tour speaks a different language than the tour guide. The interpreter travels with the group providing either simultaneous or consecutive interpretation as needed. 

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Sight Translation

In sight translation, the interpreter orally translates a written document, sometimes with little or no preparation. This is usually to relay key information and allow a meeting or other session to proceed.  

In the legal system, sight translation may be needed for trial preparation or to translate exhibits or documents submitted in foreign languages. In a hospital, a patient may need essential information in a medical brochure on surgical procedures. In a community care setting, critical documents can describe program policies and legal rights.  

In some situations, formal translation is preferable to sight translation to ensure that critical information is not misunderstood.  For example, when the safety of a patient is at stake:   

• before signing consent forms for procedures or services  
• when receiving medical instructions
  

To speak with a RABI representative about your interpretation needs, please call or email us today. 

617-945-7083
[email protected]

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> Languages we interpret

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