What type of sounds do specific sound effects usually represent?

Specific sound effects are designed to enhance the viewing experience by matching the action occurring on screen or suggesting off-screen activity that adds context to the scene. These sound effects provide cues that help the audience understand the narrative and evoke emotions related to the visual elements. For example, the sound of footsteps can indicate a character's approach, while distant gunfire implies a conflict happening just out of sight. This alignment with the visuals is crucial in creating a believable and immersive environment for the viewer.

In contrast, sounds that are unrelated to the action do not contribute to the narrative clarity or emotional depth of a scene; environmental noise, while important for ambiance, does not always directly correlate with specific actions; and sounds originating from different film genres are typically a stylistic choice rather than a direct representation of actions taking place in a particular narrative context. Thus, the focus on sound effects that directly relate to the visuals reinforces the storytelling and enhances the overall impact of the scene.