Lexicon
Vol 12, No 2 (2025)

Loss of Cultural Meaning in Netflix’s Gadis Kretek Indonesian-English Translation

Wulandari, Putu Gita Putri (Unknown)
Sosiowati, I Gusti Ayu Gde (Unknown)
Laksminy, Luh Putu (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Oct 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the phenomenon of information loss in the Indonesian-English translation of cultural terms in the Netflix series Gadis Kretek (Cigarette Girl), focusing on how key cultural nuances are reduced or omitted in the translation process. The study highlights the challenges faced when rendering culturally embedded into English, raising concerns about accuracy and cultural authenticity. This study used comprehensive semantic-componential analysis, guided by Larson’s Componential Analysis (1998) and Nida and Taber’s theory of Loss and Gain of Information (1982), applied specifically to Indonesian cultural contexts in audiovisual translation. Utilising qualitative methodologies, such as documentation, observation, and linguistic comparison, the study uncovers significant semantic reductions, including the omission of cultural values, historical context, and social connotations. The causes of these losses are considered to be primarily attributed to a lack of specificity in English, cultural and social gaps, and structural differences between the languages. In conclusion, the study emphasises the necessity for culturally sensitive translation strategies, with the core finding being that linguistic equivalence alone is insufficient to preserve cultural depth in cross-cultural translations.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

lexicon

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

Lexicon, Journal of English Language and Literature, is an open access, peer reviewed, academic journal published by the English Department, Universitas Gadjah Mada in cooperation with the English Studies Association in Indonesia (ESAI). It is devoted primarily to the publication of studies on ...