Internet
scanlation
What does scanlation mean?
The fan process — and its result — of scanning manga, translating the text, and editing it back into the pages so non-Japanese readers can follow along. Legally grey but historically vital to manga's spread.
"The official release finally caught up to where the scanlation left off."
Origin
English blend of 'scan' and 'translation'.
Frequently asked questions
What is scanlation?
Scanlation is the fan process — and its result — of scanning manga, translating the text, and editing it back into the pages so non-Japanese readers can follow along.
Where does the word scanlation come from?
It's a blend of 'scan' and 'translation'.
Is scanlation legal?
It's legally grey since it distributes copyrighted manga without a licence, but it was historically vital to manga spreading worldwide.
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