Court hearing, doctor’s appointment or international conference: a professional interpreter makes sure every word is understood correctly. As Sönmez Interpreting and Translation Agency in Düsseldorf, we give you an insight into the art of interpreting – and show which type of interpreting is right for your appointment.
What is interpreting?
Interpreting is the oral transfer of spoken content from one language into another. Unlike written translation, it happens in real time – at conferences, business meetings, court hearings, medical consultations and wherever people with different languages and cultural backgrounds meet.
The three main types of interpreting
Which type makes sense depends on the number of participants, the venue and the technical set-up:
Simultaneous interpreting
The interpreter renders what is said almost at the same time, usually from a soundproof booth via headphones. Ideal for international conferences, congresses, meetings and multilingual discussions. It requires maximum concentration, so simultaneous interpreters usually work in teams.
Consecutive interpreting
The speaker talks for a section, pauses, and then the interpretation follows. The right choice for business negotiations, appointments with authorities, court hearings, doctor’s visits and smaller events.
Whispered interpreting
The interpreter whispers the interpretation directly to one or two listeners while the speaker is talking – no equipment needed. Suitable for meetings, guided tours and events where only a few people need an interpreter.
Where our interpreters work
Our publicly sworn interpreters work in Düsseldorf, throughout North Rhine-Westphalia and across Germany, among others at:
- Courts and judicial authorities
- Public prosecutors’ offices and police authorities
- Appointments with authorities and registry offices (e.g. weddings)
- Doctor’s appointments, hospitals and medical facilities
- Business meetings and contract negotiations
- Conferences, meetings, congresses and trade fairs
- Notary appointments, interrogations and discussions
The skills of a good interpreter
A good interpreter masters at least two languages at native-speaker level and understands the cultural nuances of both sides. Add to that concentration, quick comprehension, specialist knowledge – such as legal or medical terminology – and absolute discretion. Courts and authorities usually use publicly sworn interpreters; read more in our article on sworn interpreters and authorised translators.
Booking an interpreter: how to prepare
- Share the date, time, expected duration and venue early
- Specify the language combination and dialect if relevant (e.g. Kurmanji or Sorani, Syrian Arabic)
- Tell us the type of appointment – court, doctor, notary or conference
- Send documents such as agendas, presentations or glossaries in advance
- For conferences, clarify whether interpreting equipment (booth, tour-guide system) is needed
Costs depend on the type, duration, subject area and location; judicial authorities are billed according to the German JVEG. Details can be found on our prices & terms page.
Conclusion
Interpreting is a demanding profession that overcomes language barriers and connects people. At Sönmez Interpreting and Translation Agency, we have worked with highly qualified interpreters for more than 100 languages since 1990. Need an interpreter in Düsseldorf or the surrounding area? Send us a free enquiry or find out more about our interpreting services.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an interpreter and a translator?
Interpreters render spoken language orally and in real time; translators translate written texts. Many of our language professionals work in both fields.
How far in advance should I book an interpreter?
Ideally a few days in advance, for conferences several weeks. Thanks to our large network we can often find a solution at short notice too – just give us a call.
Do you provide interpreters outside Düsseldorf?
Yes. We provide interpreters throughout North Rhine-Westphalia and Germany and, where possible, use interpreters from near the venue to keep travel costs low.
Need a translation or an interpreter?
Send us your documents – you will quickly receive a free, non-binding quote.
