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OBSTACLES AND MISTAKES IN THE PROCESS OF TRANSLATION OF
ANIMATED MOVIES
Rajabova Sevara
Scientific advisor:
PhD Nigina Aliboyeva
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15356557
Abstract.
This dissertation investigates the linguistic and cultural challenges encountered
in the translation of cartoons from English to Uzbek. It identifies common types of translation
errors, including lexical, syntactical, and cultural inaccuracies, and analyzes their impact on the
intended humor and meaning of the original material. The study employs a qualitative analysis
of selected English cartoons and their Uzbek translations. It includes a comparative analysis of
translation strategies used, as well as interviews with professional translators to gain insights
into their experiences and challenges. This research contributes to the fields of translation
studies and cultural communication by highlighting the importance of context in translation,
particularly in visual media. It aims to improve the quality of cartoon translations, thereby
enriching the viewing experience for Uzbek audiences.
Key words:
Lexical accuracy, cultural adaptation, linguistic challenges, humor
translation, qualitative analysis, child audience, pragmatic translation, semantic equivalence.
The translation of cartoons presents unique challenges that go beyond mere language
conversion. Cartoons often rely on visual humor, cultural references, and wordplay, making their
translation a complex task. This article explores common errors encountered in the translation of
English cartoons into Uzbek, highlighting the implications of these mistakes on audience
comprehension and enjoyment. One of the primary challenges in translating cartoons is the
cultural context embedded within them. English cartoons frequently incorporate idiomatic
expressions, cultural references, and humor that may not have direct equivalents in Uzbek. For
example, a pun based on an English idiom may lose its humor when translated literally into
Uzbek. Translators must navigate these cultural nuances carefully to preserve the intended
meaning and humor.
A cartoon featuring a character saying, "It's raining cats and dogs," may be translated literally
into Uzbek, resulting in confusion. A more effective approach would involve finding a culturally
relevant expression that conveys a similar sentiment about heavy rain. The structural differences
between English and Uzbek can lead to various linguistic errors during translation. English is a
Germanic language with a relatively flexible word order, while Uzbek is a Turkic language with
a more rigid syntax. This difference can result in awkward phrasing or loss of meaning if not
handled properly. In an English cartoon where a character exclaims, "I can't believe my eyes!"
translating it directly into Uzbek might yield an unnatural sentence. A skilled translator would
need to restructure the phrase to fit the Uzbek language's syntax while maintaining its emotional
impact.
Cartoons are inherently visual mediums where images play a crucial role in storytelling
and humor. Translators must consider how text interacts with visuals to ensure that the
translation complements the artwork. Errors can occur when translations do not align with what
is depicted visually, leading to misunderstandings or diminished comedic effect.
If a cartoon shows a character with a speech bubble saying something humorous while
performing an action, failing to match the tone of the text with the visual context can dilute the
humor. A translator might miss an opportunity to enhance the joke by not considering how the
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text and image work together. Understanding the target audience is vital for effective translation.
The preferences, age group, and cultural background of Uzbek viewers should guide translators
in their choices. Errors can arise when translators underestimate the audience's familiarity with
certain concepts or humor styles prevalent in English cartoons. A cartoon aimed at children may
include references that resonate well with Western children but are unfamiliar to Uzbek children.
Translators should adapt these references to ensure that they are relatable and engaging for
young viewers in Uzbekistan.
The subtleties of humor often pose significant challenges in translation. Wordplay, sarcasm,
and satire may not translate effectively, leading to a loss of comedic tone. If a translator fails to
convey the original intent or tone, the resulting translation may come off as flat or unfunny.
Sarcastic remarks that rely on tone may be difficult to express in Uzbek without additional
context. A translator must find ways to convey sarcasm through word choice or sentence
structure while ensuring that it aligns with cultural understandings of humor.
Animated films often rely heavily on cultural jokes, idioms, puns, or local traditions that are
specific to the source language. These references can be difficult or impossible to translate
directly, forcing translators to find creative equivalents in the target culture. Failure to adapt
them properly can result in loss of meaning or humor.Unlike books or even documentaries,
animated films often require
synchronization
with character lip movements and screen timing. In
dubbing, for example, translators must select words that not only convey the meaning but also
match the timing and mouth movements of animated characters, which can significantly limit
their word choices.
The target audience of animated films is typically children, which adds another layer of
complexity. Translators must ensure that language is age-appropriate, simple, and clear, without
losing the nuances of the original message. Simplifying too much may distort the message, while
preserving complex vocabulary might alienate young viewers. On-screen texts such as signs,
labels, or jokes written into the background must sometimes be translated or adapted. If
overlooked, these can create confusion or inconsistencies between the spoken dialogue and the
visual content. Many animated films include songs, rhymes, and wordplay that are tightly tied to
the rhythm and melody. Translating these requires not just language skills, but also a sense of
rhythm and creativity. It’s often impossible to translate a song literally, so translators must
rewrite lyrics while keeping the tune and meaning intact.
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