samaaikaistulkkaus

Samaaikaistulkkaus, also known as simultaneous interpreting, is a method of interpreting where the interpreter conveys the speaker's message in another language almost as the speaker is delivering it. This requires a high degree of concentration and skill, as the interpreter must listen, understand, translate, and speak all at the same time, with only a few seconds' delay.

The practice typically takes place in a soundproof booth, where interpreters work in pairs to relieve each other every 20-30 minutes due to the intense mental effort involved. The audience listens to the interpretation through headphones, usually on a dedicated channel corresponding to the desired language. Samaaikaistulkkaus is commonly used in international conferences, diplomatic meetings, and large-scale events where participants speak different languages and require immediate understanding.

This form of interpreting is distinct from consecutive interpreting, where the interpreter waits for the speaker to finish a segment of their speech before delivering the translated version. The speed and continuous nature of samaaikaistulkkaus make it ideal for situations where maintaining the flow of communication is paramount. Professional interpreters undergo rigorous training to develop the necessary linguistic proficiency, memory, and stress management skills for this demanding task.