Navigating precariousness: a netnographic approach to translanguaging in amateur subtitling of roaming games

Abstract

In the diverse landscape of heterolingual practices, amateur subtitlers face precarious conditions that are often eclipsed by the focus on language playfulness. This study aims to shed light on this overlooked aspect by adopting a netnographic approach. It explores how and why an amateur subtitler navigates precarious situations to challenge sociolinguistic norms and subvert dominant ideologies, thereby creating a ‘safe space’ for diverse voices. The data is drawn from his subtitling activities within the realm of roaming games on Bilibili.com, a prominent Chinese video-sharing platform. Through the lens of translanguaging, the analysis demonstrates that the case being analyzed utilizes a variety of repertoires, such as trans-modality, trans-discourse, trans-semiotic, and intralingual dialects. The paper argues that precariousness, functioning both as a barrier and a catalyst for innovation, highlights its critical role within the broader translingual discourse. Situated at the intersection of translation studies and critical applied linguistics, this research sets the groundwork for further exploration into the well-being of translinguals amid the evolving linguistic landscape shaped by language diversification in digital communities.