FAQ
What is an interpreter?
An interpreter acts as a communication channel between two different groups of people who do not understand each other because they speak different languages.
Is there a difference between a translator and an interpreter?
The terms interpreter and translator are often spoken in the same breath. And wrongly so as this assumes that they are both part and parcel of the same profession. There are very clear differences in fact between an interpreter and a translator. A translator translates the written word and an interpreter the spoken word. An interpreter has good communication skills , is intuitive, flexible and alert and needs to be ready to translate words literally simultaneously without any prior preparation.
ElaN Languages works with interpreters that are specialised in one or more of the following fields: scientific, technical, medical, legal, economic, political, etc.
What is the difference between consecutive, simultaneous and whispered interpreting?
Simultaneous interpreters carry out their translations from an interpreting booth, at almost exactly the same time as the person speaking. There is no delay created because of the interpreting during the meeting. This requires specific interpreting material such as interpreting booths, headsets, microphones, etc.
Simultaneous interpreting is suitable for all types of conferences and meetings that involve a lot of speeches and/or large numbers of participants.
Consecutive interpreters do not translate simultaneously, but leave the speaker a certain amount of time to finish what they have to say and then provide a summary of the text afterwards. Consecutive interpreting is suitable for small groups and limited numbers of languages. The fact of translating the text after it has been spoken means that the meeting almost doubles in length.
Whispering interpreters use a form of simultaneous interpreting without using equipment. There is no delay during meetings. This form of interpreting is used mainly when there are just one or two participants present needing a translation.
Meetings often last several hours; how long can an interpreter work without a break?
This depends on the nature of the meeting and the interpreting method used. Simultaneous interpreting is very intensive. This type of interpreter can only work for a maximum of 45 minutes without a break. If a meeting lasts more than 45 minutes, then it will be necessary to have two interpreters. They alternate to ensure that the quality of the translation remains consistently high.
With consecutive interpreting on the other hand just one interpreter per language is needed, provided that he or she can take regular breaks. In most cases an interpreter will take a 15-minute break after 45 minutes. In an intensive programme or where several languages are involved, it will be necessary to use two or more interpreters.
A whispering interpreter can only provide whispered interpreting for a maximum of two people, provided the assignment involves short presentations and small groups. In intensive programmes where the interpreter is not able to take regular pauses, two interpreters should be used for each language.
What technical equipment do I need?
For simultaneous interpreting you will need to use a certain amount of technical equipment (booths, infra red receivers, sound installations, etc.). You do not need any technical equipment on the other hand for consecutive interpreting.
And for whispered interpreting you will need to use a headset if there are more than two people listening.
ElaN Languages has customised solutions to guarantee that your interpreting assignment runs like a well-oiled machine.
How do I know what I need?
Interpreting equipment is often complex when you have no prior experience of it. ElaN Languages is very happy to help you look into what you need and put together a package for you. At ElaN Languages we use the very latest technologies for our interpreting solutions and we monitor your assignment from beginning to end.
Does ElaN work with specialists?
Every single time. We work with interpreters who are highly experienced in all possible sectors. It is vital however, that they are able to prepare themselves thoroughly for your event. Given that interpreting takes place in real time, it is difficult to correct any possible interpreting errors. You can help the interpreters therefore if you:
- Provide us with texts or explain any eventual jargon ahead of the presentations;
- - Schedule in a short meeting with the interpreters before the event and explain the company policy that they may need to be familiar with;
- - Provide the interpreters with an agenda and schedule of the event. This will enable them to decide amongst themselves which of them will cover which part of the event.
Does ElaN also provide interpreters for the deaf?
Yes, interpreters for the deaf can act as a communication channel between deaf or people with hearing difficulties and people with normal hearing abilities. During this type of interpreting assignment, the interpreter translates everything that has been said or indicated through sign language. Important background sound effects (such as audience laughter) are also communicated.
What are the different types of interpreters for the deaf?
Sign language interpreters
Many deaf people use their own language, called Sign Language. In order to ensure that a deaf person using sign language is able to communicate with someone who does not know this language, we need to call on the services of a sign language interpreter. Interpreters translating from a spoken language into sign language are called sign language interpreters. Interpreters translating from sign language into a spoken language are called sign-to-voice interpreters.
Captioners (or note-takers)
In certain situations people with hearing difficulties or people who have become deaf, as opposed to being born deaf or going deaf at an early age, need the services of a captioner. This interpreter types or writes down what has been said. The audience can read what has been said on a screen or a piece of paper.
Captioners are often used for meetings involving a large number of deaf people and people with hearing difficulties. These interpreters type out everything that has been said and this is projected onto a large screen so that everyone can follow the text visually.
Oral interpreter
Deaf people or people with hearing difficulties who are good at lip-reading may often prefer to use an oral interpreter. The interpreter repeats everything that is said using clear lip movements and without using their voice.
Four good reasons to commission an ElaN interpreter or hire ElaN interpreting material
- 15 years’ experience in providing assistance for and organising interpreting assignments.
- An excellent team of interpreters who all have at least five years’ experience
- Personal service
- State-of-the-art, superior quality technical material