Subtitles

Subtitles are translated or transcribed text displayed on screen during video content, allowing viewers to follow dialogue and narration in a language different from the original audio or providing text support for the hearing impaired. Subtitling is one of the most common and cost-effective forms of multimedia localisation.

Subtitling involves several specialised skills beyond translation. Timing and synchronisation ensure each subtitle appears and disappears in sync with the corresponding dialogue. Condensation is often required because people read more slowly than they speak, meaning subtitles frequently need to convey the same meaning in fewer words than the original dialogue. Line breaks and positioning must follow conventions that maximise readability without obscuring important visual content. And reading speed must be calibrated to ensure viewers can comfortably read each subtitle before it disappears.

Different types of subtitles serve different purposes. Interlingual subtitles translate dialogue from one language to another. Intralingual subtitles (also called same-language subtitles or captions) transcribe dialogue in the same language, primarily for accessibility. SDH (Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing) include additional information such as speaker identification and sound descriptions.

Technical requirements for subtitling vary by platform and distribution format. File formats, character limits, timing conventions, and placement rules differ between broadcast television, cinema, streaming platforms, and social media.

LEXIGO provides subtitling services across 171 languages, delivering subtitle files in all major formats for broadcast, digital, and social media distribution.

Subtitling makes video content accessible to audiences who do not speak the original language, significantly extending the reach and return on investment of video production. With video dominating digital content consumption, subtitling is essential for any organisation producing video content for multilingual audiences.

Professional subtitling also improves engagement metrics. Research shows that subtitled videos achieve higher view completion rates and better comprehension, even among viewers who speak the original language.