Exploring the Use of Idioms in “The Garfield Movie (2024)” and Equivalance in Indonesian Translation

Abstract

This study analyzes idiomatic expressions in The Garfield Movie (2024) and examines their equivalence in Indonesian translations. Idioms are fixed expressions whose meanings cannot be interpreted literally and often convey cultural nuances. Using a descriptive qualitative method, the research identifies types of idioms—lexemic (verbal, nominal, adjectival, adverbial), phrase idioms, frozen idioms, and proverbs—and evaluates how these are rendered into Indonesian through techniques such as literal translation, free translation, dynamic equivalence, formal equivalence, and adaptation. Data were collected by transcribing and observing selected scenes involving main characters Garfield, Vic, and Jinx. Results show that dynamic equivalence and adaptation are the most effective in maintaining semantic and pragmatic meaning, especially for humor and cultural references. Approximately 90% of the idioms were translated accurately, while some required cultural adjustments to achieve equivalent effect in Indonesian.