# dubs

/ˈdəbz/ (US) · /dˈʌbz/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dubs
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

the new voices added to a movie or show so you can hear it in your own language. It is a short way to say 'dubbed versions'.

For teachers: the replacement of the original dialogue in a film or television programme with a translation in another language. Often used in the context of anime or international cinema to contrast with subtitles.

## Examples

- I usually prefer the dubs over the original audio.
- The studio hired professional actors to ensure the English dubs sounded natural and matched the characters' lip movements.
- Purists often argue that dubs lose the emotional nuance of the original performance, whereas proponents appreciate the ability to focus on the visual artistry without reading subtitles.

## Usage notes

- Typically used in the plural when referring to the translated audio tracks of a series or film.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.