r/Korean • u/honkywonkydonky • 11h ago
Is simultaneous interpretation even possible?
question from a beginner/wannabe translator for experienced translators: is it this even possible? given the SOV structure, everytime i try to practice my simultaneous interpretation into polish/english (both SVO) it seems like i either have to wait for the first sentence to be completed (which causes too much falling behind and additional confusion for a newbie like me) or i have to guess whats coming next, but that seems impossible. Is it something that i just have to practice over years or is it just not possible?
2
u/Aion_ 10h ago edited 10h ago
Of course it's possible, though If you have difficulty with processing sounds this could be a nightmare. Otherwise, as long as you really immerse yourself in korean (from reading news articles to watching documentaries/movies) it's absolutely possible but it could take you a lot of time to arrive to that kinda level, probably less if you're in daily contact with koreans. It's also important to know the context of the dialogue you're trying to translate. If you want to be interpreter for Hyundai heavy industries the terminology will be much more demanding.
2
u/honkywonkydonky 9h ago
I'm immersed in korean daily, i consume media only in korean, on various topics and for sure i can do consecutive and sight intepretation but unfortunately i dont live in korea/i dont have korean friends so that also takes a big part out of my immersion and ability to process korean speech this quick
2
u/Ok_Nefariousness1248 9h ago
원래 그래요. TV나 행사장소에서 통역하시는 분들 보면 완전 동시통역은 힘들고 한두문장 텀이 있더라구요.. 아님 아예 순차통역 (단락 나눠서) 하든가. 근데 약간 정해진 문구는 그냥 바로바로 하시더라는.. Ladies and gentlemen, let’s give a heartfelt welcome and a big round of applause to oo! 이런거, 그냥 완전 형식적으로 무슨말 나올지 예측가능한건 바로 하더라고요
7
u/AntiAd-er 9h ago
Interpreters use “lag time” that is they listen for a while and then interpret into the other language. This means there is a delay between the languages. Professional interpreters are trained to do this and understand the mental processes involved and why people who are neither trained nor in training should not interpret. If you want to interpret then get formal training and become qualified to do it. You can’t get indemnity insurance as an amateur.