Short definition
The C-language is a passive working language of an interpreter – a language they fully understand but don't actively use as a target language when interpreting.
Detailed explanation
The ABC of interpreter languages ends with the C-language. It's the weakest of the three categories – not in terms of poor command, but in terms of active use. An interpreter with Spanish as their C-language fully understands a Spanish speaker and can interpret from Spanish – but doesn't interpret into Spanish.
That's an important distinction. The C-language extends an interpreter's receptive range, not their output portfolio. In practice, this means: an interpreter with Spanish as their C-language sits in the German booth and interprets Spanish speeches into German – their native language.
For conference planning, precise knowledge of all C-languages within the interpreting team is valuable. It can help reduce or simplify relay interpreting. If an interpreter has a rare language as their C-language, they may be able to replace a dedicated relay booth entirely.
Relevance in this subject area
C-languages affect booth planning and can reduce the need for additional staff and technology when rare language combinations are involved.
Practical example
At a conference with Arabic as a speaking language, no interpreter on the German team has Arabic as their A- or B-language. However, a colleague has it as their C-language and can interpret directly from Arabic into German – making a separate relay booth unnecessary.
Related terms
A-language, B-language, Passive language, Relay interpreting, Simultaneous interpreting, Interpreting system