Translation Strategies Of Idiomatic Expressions In The Subtitles Transcript Of How To Train Your Dragon Movie

Feb 27, 2025 by ADMIN 112 views

Translation Strategies of Idiomatic Expressions in the Subtitles Transcript of "How to Train Your Dragon" Movie

Introduction

The world of film subtitles is a complex and fascinating realm, where language and culture intersect in a delicate dance. One of the most significant challenges faced by translators in this field is the translation of idiomatic expressions, which can be notoriously difficult to convey in a target language. This is particularly true for films that are intended for a global audience, where the nuances of language and culture can be easily lost in translation. In this article, we will explore the translation strategies used in the subtitles of the popular animated film "How to Train Your Dragon", and examine the types of idioms that are commonly used in Indonesian subtitles.

Background

The film "How to Train Your Dragon" is a beloved animated classic that has been enjoyed by audiences around the world. The film's success can be attributed in part to its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and clever use of language. However, the film's subtitles also play a crucial role in making the story accessible to a global audience. In this study, we will examine the translation strategies used in the Indonesian subtitles of the film, and explore the types of idioms that are commonly used in this language.

Methodology

This study uses a qualitative descriptive method to analyze the translation strategies used in the Indonesian subtitles of "How to Train Your Dragon". The data was obtained from the film's subtitles, and was analyzed using techniques developed by Miles, Huberman, and Saldana (2014). The theory of idiom categorization by Fernando (1996) and the theory of idiomatic translation strategies by Mona Baker (1992) were used as an analysis framework.

Results

The results of this study show that there are various idiomatic translation strategies used in Indonesian subtitles. These strategies include:

5 Data uses idioms with similar meanings but different forms. This strategy is effective in maintaining idiomatic nuances while maintaining the clarity of messages in the target language. For example, the idiom "to have a bone to pick with someone" was translated into "has business with someone".
2 Data is translated with paraphrasing. This strategy is used when idioms are difficult to translate literally or when translators want to avoid using idioms in the target language. For example, the idiom "to be in hot water" was translated into "in difficulties".
2 data uses translations with words that are not listed. This strategy is often used to simplify sentences and avoid translation. For example, the idiom "to get a kick out of something" was translated into "enjoy something".
*11 Data is translated using the same meaning and form. This strategy is the most commonly used in the translation of idioms, especially when the idiom has a clear equivalent in the target language. For example, the idiom "to be on the same page" was translated into "agree".

Types of Idioms

The results of this study also show that there are three categories of idioms found in Indonesian subtitles:

*5 Data including literal idioms. Literal idioms have the same meaning as the literal meaning of the constituent words. For example, the idiom "to cut to the chase" was translated into "directly to its core".
*3 data including semi-idiom. Semi idiom has a meaning that is partly influenced by the literal meaning of the constituent words. For example, the idiom "to take a Chance" was translated into "trying luck".
*12 Data including pure idioms. Pure idioms have a complete meaning that is completely different from the literal meaning of the constituent words. For example, the idiom "to be all ears" was translated into "listen carefully".

Conclusion

This study provides an overview of the strategy of translating idiomatic expressions in the film subtitles "How to Train Your Dragon". The results show that there are various idiomatic translation strategies used in Indonesian subtitles, and that there are three categories of idioms found in this language. This study is important in understanding how idiom translators seek to maintain the nuances and meaning of idioms in the target language. In addition, this study also shows that idiom translators use various translation strategies and that there are various types of idioms used in Indonesian subtitles.

Implications

The findings of this study have implications for the field of translation studies, particularly in the area of idiomatic translation. The study highlights the importance of considering the nuances of language and culture when translating idiomatic expressions. It also shows that translators use various strategies to convey the meaning of idioms in the target language. This study can be used as a reference for translators and researchers who are interested in the field of idiomatic translation.

Limitations

This study has several limitations. Firstly, the study only analyzed the Indonesian subtitles of "How to Train Your Dragon", and did not consider other languages or cultures. Secondly, the study only examined the translation strategies used in the film's subtitles, and did not consider other forms of translation, such as literary or technical translation. Finally, the study only analyzed a limited number of idioms, and did not consider the broader context of idiomatic translation.

Future Research

Future research could build on the findings of this study by examining the translation strategies used in other languages or cultures. It could also consider other forms of translation, such as literary or technical translation. Additionally, future research could examine the broader context of idiomatic translation, including the role of culture and context in shaping the meaning of idioms.

References

Fernando, C. (1996). Idioms and Collocations: A Study of Lexical Semantics and Lexicography. Oxford University Press.

Miles, M. B., Huberman, A. M., & Saldana, J. (2014). Qualitative Data Analysis: A Methods Sourcebook. Sage Publications.

Baker, M. (1992). In Other Words: A Coursebook on Translation. Routledge.
Q&A: Translation Strategies of Idiomatic Expressions in the Subtitles Transcript of "How to Train Your Dragon" Movie

Introduction

In our previous article, we explored the translation strategies used in the subtitles of the popular animated film "How to Train Your Dragon". We examined the types of idioms used in Indonesian subtitles and discussed the various strategies employed by translators to convey the meaning of idioms in the target language. In this Q&A article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the translation of idiomatic expressions in film subtitles.

Q: What are idiomatic expressions, and why are they difficult to translate?

A: Idiomatic expressions are phrases or sentences that have a non-literal meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the individual words. They are often culturally specific and can be difficult to translate because they rely on shared cultural knowledge and context. Idiomatic expressions can be particularly challenging to translate in film subtitles because they are often used to convey complex emotions, ideas, or relationships.

Q: What are some common translation strategies used for idiomatic expressions in film subtitles?

A: There are several common translation strategies used for idiomatic expressions in film subtitles, including:

Literal translation: This involves translating the idiom literally, without considering the cultural or contextual nuances.
Free translation: This involves translating the idiom in a way that is more natural and idiomatic in the target language.
Paraphrasing: This involves rephrasing the idiom in a way that conveys the same meaning, but using different words or phrases.
Cultural adaptation: This involves adapting the idiom to fit the cultural context of the target language.

Q: How do translators decide which translation strategy to use?

A: Translators use a variety of factors to decide which translation strategy to use, including:

Cultural context: The cultural context of the target language and the audience.
Idiomatic meaning: The meaning of the idiom and how it is used in the source language.
Target language: The characteristics of the target language and how it is used in everyday communication.
Audience: The audience for whom the subtitles are intended.

Q: What are some challenges faced by translators when working with idiomatic expressions in film subtitles?

A: Some of the challenges faced by translators when working with idiomatic expressions in film subtitles include:

Cultural differences: Idioms can be culturally specific and may not translate well across cultures.
Linguistic differences: Idioms can be linguistically complex and may require specialized knowledge of the source and target languages.
Contextual differences: Idioms can be context-dependent and may require a deep understanding of the cultural and social context in which they are used.

Q: How can translators overcome these challenges?

A: Translators can overcome these challenges by:

Developing a deep understanding of the cultural and linguistic context: This involves researching the cultural and linguistic background of the source and target languages.
Using specialized resources: This involves using dictionaries, thesauri, and other specialized resources to help with translation.
Collaborating with other translators: This involves working with other translators who have expertise in the source and target languages.
Using technology: This involves using translation software and other tools to help with translation.

Q: What are some best practices for translators working with idiomatic expressions in film subtitles?

A: Some best practices for translators working with idiomatic expressions in film subtitles include:

Being aware of cultural differences: This involves being aware of the cultural context of the source and target languages.
Using a variety of translation strategies: This involves using a range of translation strategies, including literal translation, free translation, paraphrasing, and cultural adaptation.
Considering the audience: This involves considering the audience for whom the subtitles are intended and adapting the translation accordingly.
Using specialized resources: This involves using dictionaries, thesauri, and other specialized resources to help with translation.

Q: What are some resources available for translators working with idiomatic expressions in film subtitles?

A: Some resources available for translators working with idiomatic expressions in film subtitles include:

Dictionaries and thesauri: These can be used to help with translation and to provide a deeper understanding of the cultural and linguistic context.
Translation software: This can be used to help with translation and to provide a range of translation strategies.
Online resources: These can be used to provide a deeper understanding of the cultural and linguistic context and to access specialized resources.
Translation communities: These can be used to connect with other translators and to access specialized resources and expertise.