movie
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /mˈuːvi/
US
- /ˈmuvi/
Description
- film
- motion picture
- cinema
A movie, also called a film or motion picture, is a story shown through moving images on a screen. It is more than a set of pictures. It feels like stepping into another world for a while.
Movies can be funny, scary, sad, exciting, or educational. They take us to different times and places, introduce us to interesting people, and make us feel many emotions. You might go to a movie, watch one at home, or even make one yourself. The word "movie" came from the idea of "moving pictures," meaning pictures that seem to move.
The term "movie," short for "moving picture," refers to a visual art form used to tell stories, show real life, or entertain people. It brings together storytelling, acting, camera work, music, and editing to create a full experience.
In the past, movies were mostly shown in cinemas or movie theaters, but today they are also watched on television, streaming services, and personal devices. The world around movies, often called the film industry or Hollywood, includes everything from writing scripts and making the film to sharing and promoting it.
The word "movie" can refer to the work itself, the experience of watching it, or the art form in general. You might say, "That was a great movie!" to talk about its quality. You could also say, "She's studying filmmaking at university," which means she is learning how to create movies.
Different genres of movies fit different tastes, such as action, comedy, horror, romance, documentary, and many more. Movies are not only for entertainment. They can also comment on society, keep culture alive, and express artistic ideas. From silent films to huge modern blockbusters, movies keep changing, but their main purpose stays the same: to hold our attention, move us, and connect us through shared stories.
Examples
- 1
Home viewing
We watched a funny movie last night.
- 2
Movie discussion
Have you seen this movie before?
- 3
Movie theater
We went to the movies after dinner.
Usage
the movies
a movie theater; common in American English
- 4
Story topic
The movie is about a family moving to a new city.
- 5
True story
This movie is based on a true story.
Pattern
based on + source
using something real or already written as the starting point
- 6
Acting role
She has a small part in the movie.
- 7
Film production
They are making a movie about the rescue.
- 8
Figurative use
The sunset looked like something out of a movie.
Phrase
out of a movie
like something you would expect to see in a movie
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- movienoun
Forms
- moviespluralnoun