Using Interactive Subtitles
Learning Tools
5 min
Video pages can include subtitles and vocabulary tools. The controls available depend on the current video and device.
Using Interactive Subtitles
Video pages can include subtitles and vocabulary tools. The controls available depend on the current video and device.
Subtitle Modes
Use the subtitle display options shown with the current video:
- Start with the target-language captions when they are available.
- Use a translation or second subtitle only when the player offers it.
- Try a short segment without captions when you are ready to check comprehension.
Interactive Features
Open a word card when it is available
On supported video subtitles, selecting a word can open a word card. Depending on the word and video, it may show:
- A definition or translated definition.
- Its part of speech or level, when that information is available.
- A sentence from the video or a memory tip, when provided.
- A Listen button.
- Signed-in actions such as I Know This or Needs Practice.
Learning strategy
Watch a short segment with the subtitles that help you understand it. On a later viewing, reduce the support if the player offers another track or lets you hide captions.
Subtitle Customization
Use the options shown in the player. They can differ by video and device:
- Caption visibility and available tracks.
- Playback and display options provided by the player.
Building Vocabulary from Subtitles
Make the most of new words you encounter:
- Select an unfamiliar subtitle word only when the video makes it interactive.
- Read the definition, translated definition, or context that the word card provides.
- If you are signed in, choose I Know This or Needs Practice when those actions are available.
- Open Vocabulary Review later to revisit saved vocabulary.
Tips for Effective Use
- Do not stop at every word. Focus on words and phrases that matter to the message.
- Pay attention to phrases and expressions, not just individual words.
- Use two subtitle tracks for new grammar patterns only when the player provides them.
- Hide captions for a short segment when that option is available and you want a comprehension check.
- Replay a segment with an interesting expression when the player provides replay controls.
