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Translation and Foreign Language Learning

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ArticleTranslation Theories and Skills http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/tfll.2025.09.007

Sonic-visual Resonance: A Multimodal Study of Dubbing Translation in Chinese Animated Films under the Framework of Visual Grammar

Hao Chang, Xiao Wang*

School of Foreign Languages, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian 116029, Liaoning, China.

*Corresponding author: Xiao Wang

2025 National College Students’ Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program: Innovation Training Project — “A Multimodal Perspective on the Translation of Chinese IP in Animated Films for Global Distribution” (Project No.: 202510165001) 2024 Ministry of Education Industry-Academia Cooperative Education Program — “Enhancing Translation Technology Competence Among Faculty in Normal Universities in the Digital Intelligence Era” (Project No.: 241000630133002)
Published: September 30,2025

Abstract

This paper adopts the theoretical framework of Visual Grammar within multi-modal theory to focus on the multimodal coordination mechanism of dubbing translation in Chinese animated films. It explores translation strategies that achieve “Sonic-Visual Resonance”, thereby facilitating the international dissemination of Chinese animation. The study finds that dubbing translation must align with the narrative and conceptual aspects of Representational Meaning, ensuring consistency between semantics and visual logic through linguistic rhythm and cultural translation. It should respond to the contact, social distance, and attitudinal aspects of Interactive Meaning, maintaining harmony between interpersonal and visual contexts through tone and vocal treatment. Furthermore, it needs to synergize with the functions of focus prominence, auditory enhancement, and semantic correspondence in compositional meaning, achieving unity between information structure and visual hierarchy. The multimodal collaborative translation strategies summarized in this paper provide practical guidance for the dubbing translation of Chinese animated films, aiming to enhance their international discourse power and contribute to building China with a strong film industry.

Keywords

Animated Film; Visual Grammar; Multimodality; Dubbing Translation

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How to cite this paper

Sonic-visual Resonance: A Multimodal Study of Dubbing Translation in Chinese Animated Films under the Framework of Visual Grammar

How to cite this paper: Hao Chang, Xiao Wang. (2025). Sonic-visual Resonance: A Multimodal Study of Dubbing Translation in Chinese Animated Films under the Framework of Visual Grammar. Translation and Foreign Language Learning1(2), 247-256.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/tfll.2025.09.007