ENGLISH AS A LINGUA FRANCA AND INTERPRETING

The article discusses the unprecedented spread of English and its impact on the conference interpreting world. After describing the rise of English as a lingua franca (ELF) and its unique position in different domains, general reactions to this development are touched upon briefly. Then, the interpreters' perspective on this controversial issue is presented with reference to changes in the demand for interpreting. Furthermore, various surveys and experimental studies on ELF as a stress factor for professionals are described. Against this backdrop commonalities of ELF deviations from Standard English are reported and put into context with a view to intelligibility of non-native speakers. In conclusion, results from intelligibility studies are used to suggest possible coping strategies for professional interpreters and trainees when faced with non-native speakers.