Consecutive interpreting is a form of verbal translation in which a speaker alternates with a translator, so the translator interprets the speaker’s information after the speaker stops talking. The translator completes the whole or a part of the speech that has been made. When talking, the speaker must pause periodically so the interpreter can translate what has just been said. These pauses are not usually long. In general, the translator usually formulates their interpretation while the speaker is still speaking, so they can convey what has been said during the pause. In consecutive interpreting, the translator must mentally retain the content of the speech as it is uttered by the speaker and then switch to giving a translated version, which, of course, is very difficult.
Consecutive interpreting is commonly used in events where there are a limited number of participants. Generally, consecutive interpreting is required in the following instances: