Simultaneous interpreting
It takes place as the speaker talks. The interpreter translates the message simultaneously, which is rendered to the target-language listeners via their earphones. This modality requires a sound system and the interpreters’ booth to be installed
Consecutive interpreting
The speaker talks for a period of about five minutes, while the translator takes notes and then translates afterwards. It does not require technical equipment but doubles the time needed for each speech. It is particularly suited to press conferences or short presentations.
Whispered interpreting
The interpreter whispers a simultaneous interpretation of the speech at hand into the ear of one or two listeners. This modality is used when only a small minority of listeners do not speak the source language.
Liaison interpreting
The interpreter consecutively translates a conversation between two people or between a small group of people, in other words, after each short speech.