Non-verbal communication as a component of Polish-English courtroom talk affecting the accuracy and impartiality of interpreting

Abstract

Non-verbal communication is a fundamental element of intercultural interactions. This paper seeks to discuss non-verbal expressions, such as gazes, long pauses, pointing gestures, nodding and other head movements, produced by the participants in Polish-English courtroom interactions with a view to studying the interpreter’s obligation to provide accurate renditions and to remain impartial. It is hypothesized that not only may non-verbal components of the original speakers’ utterances have an impact on the interpreters’ renditions, but also that the interpreters’ own non-verbal expressions have the potential to add to the meaning of their utterances. The results of the analysis show that all participants, including interpreters, use a non-verbal channel and that body language can affect the meaning of the messages transmitted throughout the interactions and lead to a possible lack of accuracy and/or impartiality in interpreting.