What is simultaneous interpreting?

Unlike consecutive interpreting, simultaneous interpreting occurs in real-time, without any pauses, while the speaker is talking.

Simultaneous interpreting is suitable in situations when the speakers know they won’t be making pauses in during speech. This type of interpreting is typically used at conferences and whenever it is necessary to interpret into several languages at once. Simultaneous interpreting usually requires specialised equipment.

Since it is performed in real-time, the interpreters must adapt to the tempo of the original speaker. It is an extremely demanding job that requires interpreters to work in pairs, taking turns approximately every 20 minutes.

Partners