A notable generational shift is redefining media consumption, particularly in the use of subtitles. Where older viewers traditionally reserved them for situations involving hearing difficulties or challenging accents, younger generations have increasingly adopted them as a default(默认). Recent surveys reveal a striking contrast: over 80% of viewers aged 18-25 use subtitles regularly, compared to less than a quarter of older generations.
This trend among fluent listeners and those without hearing impairments is closely linked to modern viewing habits, especially multitasking. The common practice of “double-screening”—using a smartphone while watching television—makes subtitles a practical tool for efficiency. They allow a viewer to quickly read dialogue, respond to a notification on their phone, and re-engage with the visual narrative without losing the plot’s thread. The experience becomes one of managed information intake rather than passive absorption.
The influence of social media and streaming platforms further strengthens this norm. Short-form video content almost universally features permanent captions, conditioning a younger audience to expect and rely on textual support. Algorithmic(算法的) systems on platforms like TikTok also promote videos with text, as captions improve search visibility and keep viewers watching. Thus, a feature initially designed for accessibility has evolved into a powerful tool for content discovery and engagement.
However, this convenience involves a trade-off. While subtitles undeniably aid comprehension, especially with complex dialogue or when viewing in noisy environments, they can also function as mini-spoilers, reducing the impact of a perfectly delivered punchline or a subtle emotional expression. Some critics question whether this efficiency-focused approach sacrifices deeper immersion for mere plot comprehension.
In conclusion, the normalization of subtitles is less an active preference and more an adaptation to a fast-paced, multi-screen lifestyle. They represent a significant shift in viewing culture, where technological habits reshape expectations, prioritizing flexible comprehension over traditional, uninterrupted engagement with audiovisual art.
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1.1. What does the survey data primarily show about subtitle usage?
A Widespread among youth.
B Rare in older generation.
C For hearing impaired only.
D Equal across all ages.
解析：选A。A细节理解题。根据题目可知，关键看survey data（调查数据）的核心信息。原文说“18-25 岁观众超80%常看字幕，老年群体不足四分之一”，据此可知，A正确：80%的年轻人用字幕，比例极高，直接体现“年轻人中普遍使用”，且这是数据重点突出的代际差异核心，符合题意。B错误：“不足四分之一”（近 25%）是“少数人用”，不算“很少（rare）”；且数据重点是“老少对比”，不是单独说老年人，B没抓核心。C错误：原文明确年轻人 “默认用字幕”，并非只给听力障碍者用，与原文矛盾。D错误：80% 和不足 25% 差距极大，显然 “各年龄段使用不同”，D 与数据完全不符。故选A。
2.2. Why are subtitles considered efficient for multitasking?
A They enhance visual focus.
B They enable quick reading and phone use.
C They improve audio clarity.
D They increase entertainment value.
解析：选B。B推理判断题。根据第二段“They allow a viewer to quickly read dialogue, respond to a notification... and re-engage without losing the plot’s thread”可推断，字幕通过允许观众快速阅读并同步处理手机事务，实现了多任务的高效管理。故选B。
3.3. What was the original intention behind subtitles as mentioned in the third paragraph?
A To boost entertainment.
B To support multitasking.
C For accessibility needs.
D For algorithm promotion.
解析：选C。 C细节理解题。根据第三段“a feature initially designed for accessibility”可知，字幕最初是为满足可访问性需求（如听力障碍）而设计的。A选项“提升娱乐性”和B选项“支持多任务”是后续衍生的用途；D选项“用于算法推广”是当前功能，非原始目的。故选C。
4.4. What do critics worry about subtitle use?
A It increases engagement.
B It aids comprehension.
C It eliminates audio needs.
D It reduces emotional impact.
解析：选D。D推理判断题。根据第四段“they can also function as mini-spoilers, reducing the impact of a perfectly delivered punchline or a subtle emotional expression”可推断，批评者认为字幕会提前泄露内容，削弱情感表达的效果。故选D。
