Whispered interpreting, also known as whispering interpretation or chuchotage (from the French verb chuchoter, to whisper), is a form of simultaneous interpreting.

The name should not be taken too literally: the interpreter does not actually whisper but speaks very quietly. This strains the voice, which is why the duration of an assignment is limited. A distinction is made between whispered interpreting without equipment and with a tour guide system.

Without equipment: for one or two listeners

The interpreter sits slightly behind one listener or between two listeners and interprets quietly. The advantage: there are no costs for interpreting equipment. This is suitable, for example, when individual participants who do not speak the language need to follow a meeting.

The limits of this form:

• Proximity: the interpreter sits very close to the listener. Over a longer period, both sides often find this uncomfortable.
• Disturbance: other participants may feel disturbed by the whispering, especially if they do not realise that interpreting is taking place.
• Strain: the interpreter has to listen to the speaker over their own voice.

With a tour guide system: for groups of up to about 20

With a portable tour guide system (whisper system), whispered interpreting is also possible for larger groups of around 10 to 20 participants. The interpreter speaks into a wireless microphone, and the listeners hear the interpretation through headphones with receivers.

The interpreter then does not have to sit right next to the listeners and can choose a position from which they can see and hear the speaker and the presentation clearly. In noisy environments such as factories, assembly halls or construction sites, the system is supplemented by a microphone for the speaker and headphones for the interpreter.

Typical uses:

• factory tours and site visits
• training sessions
• small groups at international events

On request, we organise the tour guide system as well.

Whisper system or interpreter booth?

At events held in a hall, whispered interpreting disturbs the other participants – with or without a tour guide system. For conferences and meetings, an interpreter booth is therefore the better choice. We will advise you on what suits your event.

Do you need whispering interpreters or have questions about interpreting equipment? Contact us – we look forward to your enquiry.

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