The Translation Process in Dubbing
When dubbing into a language other than the original, several key tasks must be performed to ensure an accurate and natural-sounding adaptation:
- Translation: The first step involves converting the script into the target language while preserving meaning and tone.
- Dialog Writing: The translation is adapted to sound natural in spoken form rather than a literal word-for-word conversion.
- Take Segmentation: The dialogue is broken into segments that align with the original footage.
- Insertion of Dubbing Symbols: Special notation is added to indicate timing, pauses, and emphasis.
- Lip-Sync Adjustments: The adapted script is refined to match the lip movements of the characters on screen.
Sometimes, a single translator handles all these tasks, but often, a dedicated dialogue writer refines the translated script to ensure a more fluid and believable performance.