Simultaneous and Consecutive Interpretation from English to Arabic: How Does Pragmatic Context Influence Meaning Transfer?

This article examines the role of pragmatic context in simultaneous and consecutive inter-pretation, particularly in international and political settings, where cultural, social, and political factors significantly shape the transmission of meaning between languages. Interpretation is not merely the transfer of words but a complex discursive process that necessitates an understanding of intentions, rhetorical strategies, and the cultural backgrounds of both the speaker and the target audience. The significance of this study stems from the urgent need to enhance the quality of simul-taneous and consecutive interpretation due to its crucial role in diplomacy, politics, media, and international relations. The article seeks to analyze how pragmatic context influences interpreta-tion, investigate the impact of cultural and social differences between English and Arabic on trans-lation accuracy, and provide practical examples illustrating how interpretation can lead to meaning shifts depending on context. The study adopts a pragmatic and analytical methodology, examining translated political speeches with a focus on how cultural and political context shapes the final meaning. Case studies and applied examples are also presented to highlight the challenges faced by interpreters and the strategies they employ to navigate them. The research concludes that pragmatic context plays a fundamental role in interpretation, as meaning is not solely derived from words but is deeply intertwined with the speaker’s intent, the audience, and the political or cultural situation.