SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETING: THEORY, PRACTICE, STRATEGIES, AND EVALUATION

Abstract

The article provides an in-depth examination of simultaneous interpretation (SI), regarded as one of the most complex and demanding forms of interpreting. Unlike consecutive interpreting, SI involves delivering the translation in real-time, almost simultaneously with the speaker’s speech, without requiring pauses or interruptions. This characteristic makes SI particularly suitable for international conferences, high-level diplomatic meetings, live broadcasts, and other real-time communication scenarios.

The work starts with outlining the theoretical underpinnings of SI, highlighting its distinction from other interpreting modes in terms of time constraints, cognitive load, and linguistic challenges. The practical implementation of SI is discussed through three main variants: interpreting by ear, interpreting from written text, and reading pre-translated text simultaneously. The need for interpreters to maintain both speed and accuracy without access to dictionaries or extended preparation time places immense pressure on their linguistic, cognitive, and emotional capacities.