You might have noticed short strings of letters next to subtitle languages when selecting subtitles to play with a video. These short strings-- like en, es, ru, fr, zh-cn, and others-- are language codes. Language codes allow the files to be read, labeled, and organized as the correct language by online video players. Why do … Continue reading What are language codes?
New to Amara: Tamazight!
We are proud to announce that Amara added a new language available for subtitling: Tamazight! Now Amara users like you can add subtitles in Tamazight to videos. Select it from the dropdown menu and then enter the Amara Subtitle Editor to start subtitles. Search "Tamazight" or the language code "zgh" to find it quickly in … Continue reading New to Amara: Tamazight!
Why Do We Review Subtitles?
Why can't everyone just make perfect subtitles the first time that they try? Why should you learn how to review subtitles? Collaboration is an essential tool in quality assurance. There is a reason that the saying "two heads are better than one" has been translated into so many languages. It is because we are more … Continue reading Why Do We Review Subtitles?
Tips to Translate Subtitles in High Quality
What does it mean to translate subtitles? How do you know if you have done a good job? What are the best practices for new translators? Preserve Meaning The most important task in any translation work is to preserve meaning from one language to another. Direct translation or "word-for-word" translation doesn't always work, which can … Continue reading Tips to Translate Subtitles in High Quality
What is Transcription?
Transcription is the process of getting spoken or signed language onto paper. Transcription works within one language, taking spoken words or signs and transcribing them into written script. If you create subtitles in the same language as a video, you're a transcriptionist! Transcription is important because it creates access to videos, provides a reference for … Continue reading What is Transcription?
What is Localization?
Localization is the process of adapting language to a local culture's norms and expectations. Languages are not bound by national borders. And languages vary from region to region, dialect to dialect, and accent to accent. Differences in vocabulary, spelling, and cultural references are all important to local audiences. For instance, different dialects of German are … Continue reading What is Localization?
Reasons For Being a Video Translator
There are many reasons to be a translator: global accessibility, linguistics, exposure to other cultures, opportunities to connect with the world. Maybe the flexibility that comes with being a freelance translator is the largest draw for you, like it is for many digital nomads in the translation industry. Setting your own hours, choosing up only … Continue reading Reasons For Being a Video Translator