@chikorita157 Anna famously is a very common Swedish name, the name of a Sumerian Goddess, a fairly common Japanese name (I mean I’ve heard of it, can’t be too obscure then), and pretty common in English speaking countries as well.
But it also doesn’t sound the name in all languages. In fact Swedish names said in English often sounds terrible. Like Magnus, Björn, Ragnar, etc. BUT I’m sure since you don’t know Swedish they don’t sound wonky to you.
But German phonemes do not translate super well to Japanese. Or English:) I can pick out Americans trying to speak German in media (bad) or trying to have German accents (they fail! Check out Flula Borg, that’s how a German sound). Same with French.
Best is to either avoid things that can’t be said (looking at you budget Fantasy novels) or use common sounding words.
I’m ok with an Anna in a dub. But I get so sad every time I hear a Saaakjuuuraaah (with a Texas accent). *sigh* You can say Samurai without saying sah-mjuh-rat or something.
Rant over. The novocain is going away and I’m in pain:/
(Seriously check out Flula, such a funny guy.)