Features of translating english-language films into ukrainian for people with hearing impairments

The article explores both theoretical and practical aspects of audiovisual translation, with a particular focus on creating subtitles for individuals with hearing impairments. The issue addressed is ensuring equal access to audiovisual content for viewers who cannot fully perceive auditory information. The study emphasizes the dual function of subtitles for people with hearing impairments: they serve both as a linguistic translation and as a communicative tool that conveys extralinguistic elements, such as sound effects, music, intonation, and emotional nuances. It examines both the international and Ukrainian contexts, emphasizing that in many European countries, inclusive subtitling practices are already established, whereas in Ukraine they are only beginning to develop. The relevance of the study is supported by global statistics indicating hundreds of millions of people with hearing impairments, highlighting the need to develop effective, culturally sensitive, and technically advanced subtitling practices in Ukraine. The novelty of the research lies in its focus on the methodological aspects of translating English-language films into Ukrainian and exploring methods for conveying cultural references, onomatopoeia, idioms, and stylistic features within the technical limitations of subtitles. Special attention is given to preserving the authenticity of spoken language, synchronizing subtitles with the video, and employing strategies such as linguistic compression, omission, generalization, and adaptation. The article uses creative ideas presented in the scientific works of leading audiovisual translation researchers and analyzes international standards (notably the Ofcom Guidelines and BBC Subtitling Editorial Guidelines), which serve as criteria for quality and accessibility. Using examples from English-language films and translations for streaming platforms, both successful and problematic cases are illustrated, particularly regarding the reproduction of cultural references and expressive means. The methodological basis of the study combines general scientific methods with a comparative analysis of real translation practices. The practical significance of the work lies in the possibility of applying its results to translator training, improving subtitling technologies in Ukraine and expanding social inclusion through media. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that audiovisual translation for individuals with hearing impairments is a complex interdisciplinary field requiring linguistic, cultural, and technical competence. It emphasizes that subtitles should ensure not only semantic equivalence but also the preservation of emotional, cultural, and communicative value, enabling full participation of people with hearing impairments in cultural life.