Consecutive interpreting

Consecutive interpreting is the oldest form of interpreting. The interpreting takes place with a time delay, which means the interpreter takes notes during a speech and subsequently produces the target language text. The individual passages of text can vary in length, but they normally form a longer, continuous segment.

In the case of unilateral consecutive interpreting, the interpreting occurs in one language direction only and generally requires up to ten minutes to interpret the passages of text. In the case of bilateral consecutive interpreting or conversational interpreting, one interpreter takes charge of both language directions and thereby enables communication between two discussion partners, e.g. for interviews or negotiations. The segments are shorter in this case.

Due to the considerable amount of time required, consecutive interpreting is seldom used nowadays for conferences. It is more frequently used at ceremonious events (e.g. after-dinner speeches or receptions for guests), at high-ranking events or at cultural events such as author readings or film premieres. 

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