Learning foreign languages through watching movies and series with subtitles has become a popular learning method. However, the question arises: which subtitles to use — in the native language, target language, or both simultaneously (2 sub)? Let's examine the advantages and disadvantages of each option depending on language proficiency level.
🟢Native Language Subtitles: Comfort for Beginners
For language learning beginners, native language subtitles provide understanding of plot and context. They allow focusing on listening without losing the narrative thread. However, there's a risk that attention will be focused on reading rather than perceiving foreign speech.
Pros:
- Facilitate plot understanding.
- Reduce stress level when perceiving unfamiliar language.
Cons:
- May slow down listening skill development.
- Reduce motivation for active language learning.
🔵Target Language Subtitles: Step Toward Immersion
Using subtitles in the learning language helps improve reading and listening skills. This promotes better memorization of new words and expressions in context.
Pros:
- Improve foreign language reading skills.
- Expand vocabulary.
- Increase listening comprehension level.
Cons:
- Can be difficult for beginners due to unfamiliar vocabulary.
- Requires greater concentration and effort.
🟡Dual Subtitles (2 sub): Balance Between Understanding and Learning
Dual subtitles, or 2 sub, represent simultaneous display of text in native and target languages. This approach is popular in Indonesia, where users search for movies with dual subtitles using the query "film sub indo". Using 2 sub allows comparing translations and original text, promoting deeper language understanding.
Pros:
- Allow comparing sentence structure and vocabulary of two languages.
- Simplify understanding of complex phrases and expressions.
- Suitable for intermediate language learners.
Cons:
- May overload visual perception.
- Require greater concentration and attention.
📊Subtitle Selection Recommendations by Level
| Language Proficiency Level | Recommended Subtitles |
|---|---|
| Beginner | Native language |
| Intermediate | Dual subtitles (2 sub) |
| Advanced | Target language |
🛠️Tools for Using Dual Subtitles
There are various extensions and platforms that allow using dual subtitles:
1. DoubleSubs
DoubleSubs is a browser extension that allows simultaneously displaying original and translated subtitles when watching videos on YouTube and Netflix. Additional features include text translation on any web pages, ability to listen to word pronunciation, and creating a personal dictionary for memorizing new words. The extension is available for Chrome, Opera, Edge, and Yandex.Browser.
2. Subtube
Subtube is a Chrome extension designed for displaying dual subtitles on YouTube. It supports translations into various languages, automatic subtitle generation, and customization of their appearance. A mobile application for learning English is also available.
3. Dualsub
Dualsub is a Firefox extension that allows displaying dual subtitles on YouTube. It supports automatic switching to local language, subtitle duplication, and style customization. The ability to download subtitles in various formats is also available.
4. Language Learning with Frogly
Frogly is a free Chrome extension that provides video viewing with dual subtitles on Netflix and YouTube. Additional features include word translation on hover, saving words to personal dictionary, and word memorization exercises.
Conclusion: The choice of subtitle type depends on your language proficiency level and learning goals. Native language subtitles are suitable for beginners, 2 sub for those who want to deepen knowledge, and target language subtitles for advanced learners. Using the right approach will help you effectively learn languages through movies and series.