Subtitling and dubbing are two different methods of conveying translation and dialogue into another language in film and television. Here are the main differences between them:
Visual
Subtitles are lines of text that appear on the screen at the bottom of the video, allowing viewers to read the translation in their own language. Subtitles do not interfere with the original video and allow viewers to remain visually connected to what is happening on screen. At the same time, dubbing replaces the original audio track with a translated version in another language. With dubbing, viewers hear translated dialogue and sounds without reading the text on the screen.
Viewing Experience
Watching videos with subtitles requires some reading skills and the ability to quickly read text information while watching. It may require more concentration and attention so as not to miss anything important. Dubbing, on the other hand, allows viewers to become completely immersed in the film as they can hear the dialogue in their own language without having to read it.
Expression of original voices and emotions
Dubbing can allow the voices and intonations of the original actors to be preserved while transferring them into another language. It can also maintain emotional delivery and acting skills. On the other hand, subtitles, although they convey meaning and dialogue, cannot convey nuances and intonations, or preserve the original voice and emotional expression of the actors.
Adapting Cultural Nuances
Dubbing can allow a film or television series to be adapted to the culture and language of the target audience, providing a better understanding of humor, wordplay, and other cultural aspects. Subtitles may be less able to convey these cultural nuances, although they can help with artistic and informational contexts.
Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them depends on the preferences of the viewer and the goals to be achieved in translation and broadcasting. Typically, subtitling is used in cinemas or television where the original audio remains, and dubbing is most common in television series and cartoons, as well as in the commercial distribution of films for foreign markets.