Voice-over, Voiceover, or Voice Over - What Do We Call Our Industry?
In the vast and diverse field of audio production, there has long been a debate regarding the terminology used to describe the art of providing a voice narration to accompany visuals. Some refer to it as “voice over,” (separated by a space) while others prefer “voice-over” (separated by a hyphen) or “voiceover” (no separation). This article aims to explore the popularity versus the effectiveness of these terms within the industry, examining their definitions, linguistic variations, dictionary support, marketplace usage, and the stance of Google on the matter.
What is a voice over?
A voice over is a technique where a voice artist, known as a voice over artist, provides spoken narration for various mediums such as films, commercials, documentaries, video games, and more. It most often involves the synchronization of the recorded voice with music and visuals to enhance storytelling and convey messages effectively. Voice overs play a crucial role in engaging and captivating audiences, providing information, or evoking specific emotions.
Noun, verb, adverb - Does it matter?
The variation in terminology arises from the usage of the phrase as a noun, verb, or adverb. “Voice over” is primarily used as a noun, referring to the act or result of providing a voice narration. “Voice-over” is commonly used as a compound noun, denoting the specific technique and skill of delivering voice narration. “Voiceover” is often employed as an adverb, describing the action of performing a voice over. While these variations may seem trivial, they can have an impact on the industry’s perception and professional terminology.
What dictionaries support which terms?
The language we use is heavily influenced by dictionaries, which serve as authorities on word definitions and usage. Notably, different dictionaries present varying approaches to the terminology surrounding voice narration. For instance, Cambridge Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, and Dictionary.com recognize “voice-over” as a noun, and with no reference to the other alternatives. Oxford English Dictionary acknowledges “voice-over” as a noun and “voiceover” as a verb. However, both dictionaries omit the compound noun “voice over.” These variations reflect the ongoing linguistic debate within the industry.
Which voice over marketplaces support which terms?
The voice over industry has witnessed the emergence of online marketplaces that connect voice artists with clients seeking their services. These platforms play a significant role in shaping industry standards and terminology. Notably, Voices and Voice123, and Bunny Studio, three prominent marketplaces, all employ the term “voice over” in their branding and throughout their websites. Conversely, Voquent goes by the hyphenated “voice-over”. This choice may reflect their recognition of the term’s widespread usage and familiarity among industry professionals and clients alike. It is interesting to note that the Berklee College of Music supports the use of the single-word “voiceover”.
What does Google say about the issue?
As the dominant search engine, Google provides insight into the popularity and common usage of terms. A search analysis reveals that all three variations, “voice over,” “voice-over,” and “voiceover,” are widely utilized. However, the search results also indicate that “voice over” and “voiceover” are more prevalent, potentially suggesting their greater acceptance and popularity. Google Trends, which tracks search term popularity over time, further supports the notion that “voice over” and “voiceover” are the more widely used terms in recent years.
Conclusion
In the voice over industry, the choice between “voice over,” “voice-over”, or “voiceover” continues to spark debate. While the variations may seem inconsequential, they reflect the dynamic nature of language and the nuanced preferences within the industry. Dictionaries provide mixed support for each term, showcasing the ongoing linguistic debate. Furthermore, popular voice over marketplaces tend to favor the use of “voice over,” aligning with its widespread recognition. Google’s search results and trends suggest that “voice over” and “voiceover” are more popular and commonly used terms in recent years.
Ultimately, the choice of terminology may come down to personal preference, regional variations, or specific industry conventions. Some professionals may argue that “voice-over” is a more accurate representation of the technique, emphasizing the collaborative nature of combining voice and visuals. Others may prefer “voiceover” for its simplicity and efficiency, considering it a concise way to describe the action of providing voice narration.
In the end, the popularity of a term within the industry is influenced by its effectiveness in conveying the intended meaning and resonating with clients, voice artists, and the general public. It is essential to consider the context in which the term is used and the understanding it evokes. As the voice over industry continues to evolve and adapt, the terminology will likely continue to evolve as well, reflecting the dynamic nature of language and the preferences of those working within the field.
Regardless of the specific terminology used, the voice over industry remains a vital component of various media forms. The skill and expertise of voice artists continue to shape narratives, enhance storytelling, and captivate audiences worldwide. Whether it is called “voice over,” “voice-over,” or “voiceover,” the significance of this industry and its impact on multimedia experiences cannot be denied.
And for reference, Dedicated To VO will use the two-word “voice over”… until the industry changes again!