Whispered interpreting (“chuchotage”)

Chuchotage interpreters are also simultaneous interpreters. Whispered interpreting is a special form of simultaneous interpreting. The term “whispered interpreting” is derived from the fact that the simultaneous interpreter speaks slightly muffled, even if the interpreter speaks a little louder than if they were whispering. Two settings are conceivable here.

• Firstly, for example for gala dinners, where the interpreter is positioned behind or to the side of the participant who needs the interpretation.
• Secondly, it is used for guided tours (e.g. factory tours or city tours) where interpreting booths cannot be used.

Difficult conditions for chuchotage interpreters

Chuchotage interpreters work under difficult conditions. On the one hand, the working environment requires even greater concentration, as simultaneous interpreters work without a soundproof interpreting booth and therefore hear ambient noise and conversations. Furthermore, “whispering” is very strenuous for the voice. With this type of interpreting, the simultaneous interpreters also work in teams of at least 2 people and take turns every 15 to 30 minutes. If necessary, aggravation surcharges apply due to the special requirements.

Whispered interpreting is no substitute for professional technology

The settings described above are not an adequate substitute for professional interpreting technology with interpreting booths. Only when working in interpreting booths can simultaneous interpreters find the working conditions that enable them to provide high-quality interpreting for the event and thus ensure loss-free communication for the organizer.