Lost in subtitling: do Arabic satellite TV channels and DVDs speak the same language?

Subtitling taboo comedy is a complex issue in Arabic audiovisual translation, requiring sensitivity to cultural norms. This study examines the levels and frequency of censorship in Arabic subtitles on satellite TV channels versus DVDs. Using a corpus of 16 episodes from seasons 9–11 of the American sitcom Two and a Half Men as aired on MBC4 and on DVD, a comparative linguistic analysis of original dialogues and Arabic subtitles identifies censorship instances and strategies. Findings show more rigorous censorship on TV than on DVD for taboo language, especially sexual references and swear words. Three main strategies are observed on MBC4: euphemisation, semantic mistranslation, and omission. Additionally, the satellite channel applies strict censorship of homosexuality, including omitting entire scenes, to avoid offending viewers. Dominant ideologies and censorship practices substantially modify linguistic and visual content, hindering comprehension of storylines and intended humor.

Amer Al-Adwan