Journal of Comprehensive Science
Vol. 5 No. 5 (2026): Journal of Comprehensive Science

Hermeneutical Approach Used in The Translation of Swear Words Found in “Jakarta VS Everybody” Movie Into English

Dimas Adi Pratama (Universitas Warmadewa, Indonesia)
I Nyoman Muliana (Universitas Warmadewa, Indonesia)
I Gusti Ayu Agung Dian Susanthi (Universitas Warmadewa, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
25 May 2026

Abstract

This study examines the translation of swear words in the Indonesian film Jakarta vs Everybody into English subtitles by applying a hermeneutical approach combined with audiovisual translation theory. The background of this research lies in the complexity of translating culturally bound and emotionally charged expressions, such as swear words, which require not only linguistic equivalence but also contextual and pragmatic interpretation. The objective of this study is to analyze how swear words are classified, translated, and contextually reconstructed across languages. This research employed a qualitative descriptive method with textual analysis, focusing on selected dialogue containing swear words and their corresponding subtitles. The findings reveal that swear words are categorized into several dominant themes, including scatological, sex organ, and sexual activities, each serving different communicative functions. In terms of translation strategies, cultural substitution, paraphrasing, euphemizing, and omission are frequently used to maintain naturalness, readability, and pragmatic equivalence under subtitle constraints. The discussion shows that translation involves a hermeneutical process of understanding, interpretation, and reformulation, often resulting in shifts in emotional intensity and cultural nuance. In conclusion, translating swear words in audiovisual media is a dynamic interpretive process in which translators act as cultural mediators to preserve meaning, function, and audience impact.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

jcs

Publisher

Subject

Computer Science & IT Economics, Econometrics & Finance Electrical & Electronics Engineering Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Library & Information Science

Description

This journal publishes research articles covering multidisciplinary sciences, which includes: Humanities and social sciences, contemporary political science, Educational sciences, religious sciences and philosophy, economics, Engineering sciences, Health sciences, medical sciences, design arts ...