Working at cross-purposes in interpreting through doublespeak

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Published: Feb 13, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12681/ijltic.43
Théophile Munyangeyo
Leeds Metropolitan University
Abstract

The concept of fidelity has been at the forefront of the conduit model narratives in interpreting. However, since interpreting operates in various modes, modalities and settings, seeking neutrality as the interpreter’s performance indicator seems unrealistic. Interpreting as a multimodal activity and process highlights the meaningfulness of the concept of appropriateness in communication models. From the relevance of semantic components of linguistic utterances to the importance of pragmatic mediation in interpreting, the interpreter’s multidimensional approach can lead to working at cross-purposes while managing sensitivity. Using secondary research and primary research data obtained through self-reported experiences, this article explores and reflects on when, how and why doublespeak works in cross-purposes interpreting. It concludes that in the context of interpreter-mediated encounters where the interpreter is an involved participant or is expected to play an active role in seeking and fostering communicative appropriateness, using and interpreting doublespeak requires putting linguistic dimensions and the interpreter’s mediation role on an equal footing.

 

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Author Biography
Théophile Munyangeyo, Leeds Metropolitan University

Dr. Théophile Munyangeyo is Senior Lecturer in Applied Linguistics. He teaches Academic Communications Skills (written & oral presentation skills), Introduction to Language studies (syntax, semantics and pragmatics), Translation and Interpreting (theory and practice) in English-French. In his academic career, he has designed, either on his own or in collaboration with colleagues, a range of courses in French and applied language studies (including interpreting), from undergraduate to postgraduate level. He has organised and chaired international conferences, developed extensive teaching materials, given lectures, led seminars and workshops in the area of French studies, multilingalism and applied linguistics. He is member of research committees and editorial boards for journals. He is also involved in staff mobility partnerships and gives guest lectures on a variety of topics within applied linguistics area in European partner universities outside the United Kingdom. He examines and supervises research work, from BA dissertations to PhD theses in language learning and teaching and he is currently external examiner to two British universities.

Apart from his publications of books on linguistic and cultural diversity, discourse analysis, self-directed learning and challenges and opportunities in public service interpreting, Dr. Théophile Munyangeyo has published articles, books chapters and presented conference papers locally and internationally, focusing mainly on critical analysis of fictional narratives, multilingual literacy and plurilingual competence, research supervision strategies, European linguistic diversity, the concepts of language proficiency and native or near-native fluency in language learning, language policy in education, public service interpreting and ethics, working at cross purposes in interpreting, enhancing learner engagement in e-learning provision, language learning through the year abroad experience, language acquisition and language transfer in a multilingual learning environment, the discourse of deletion in interpreter-mediated encounters, the discourse and meaningfulness of proximity in interpreter mediated encounters, the role ‘riddle’ of the interpreter in the discourse of identity and ethical dilemmas in public service interpreting, impact of unwarranted adherence in interpreter-mediated encounters in public service interpreting, etc.

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