Happily lost in translation: Misunderstandings in film dialogue

Abstract

This article examines the construal, cross-cultural relay and comprehension of misunderstandings by filmmakers, translators and audiences respectively of Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001) and Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004). It reports on findings of a case-study on implicatures in these two romantic comedies (Desilla 2009/2012/2014). Both genuine and feigned misunderstandings are found in the two films. Inter alia, the analysis will show that misunderstandings can serve comedic and/or narrative functions, the latter pertaining to both characterisation and, more crucially, plot advancement. It is also demonstrated how misunderstandings can permeate only a single layer or both layers of film communication.

Sentiment analysis of tweets and government translations: Assessing China’s post-COVID-19 landscape for signs of withering or booming

“…When translation discrepancies occur, it can lead to misunderstandings, misinformation, and a lack of trust among diverse communities. This highlights the importance of employing culturally sensitive and linguistically accurate translations to ensure clear and consistent messaging (Desilla, 2019; Qassem, 2021). Practically, translation discrepancies can hinder the successful implementation of recovery measures by impeding effective communication with diverse populations.…”