Fact · Transcription
The HTML standard defines subtitles as a transcription or translation of the dialogue, for when the sound is available but not understood.
Checked against its source on October 17, 2026
In the source's own words
“Transcription or translation of the dialogue, suitable for when the sound is available but not understood”
HTML Living Standard: Media elements, text track kinds (subtitles and captions), WHATWG, HTML Living Standard, n.d., Text track kinds: subtitles.
Open the original- What it measures
- The standard gives the example of a viewer who does not understand the language of the audio track.
- What it does not show
- A technical definition used by web browsers, not a legal one.