Definition of Film (meaning 1 of 3 — noun)
Quick Meaning of Film
A movie or video created to tell a story or show events.
Detailed Definition of Film
A story or performance recorded on camera and shown as entertainment in a cinema or on screen.
How to Pronounce Film
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: Pronounced like 'film' with a short 'i' sound, rhyming with 'hill'.
Other Meanings of Film
“Film” has 3 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 2:
#2 Film as a verb
To record or capture something on video or movie camera.
film a scene
#3 Film as a noun
A very thin covering or layer of something on top of a surface.
thin film
Origin and Etymology of Film
From Old English 'filmen' meaning to cover with a thin layer; later used for movie scenes on celluloid.
How to Use Film in a Sentence
Each example shows “film” in the meaning “A movie or video created to tell a…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“We watched a great film at the cinema last night.”
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“That horror film scared me for days.”
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“She directed a film about climate change.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Film
Common Synonyms for Film
Smart Synonyms for Film — When to Use Each
- movie
- more common in American English for entertainment stories
- documentary
- when the film presents real events or factual
Common Collocations with Film
These phrases pair with “film” in everyday English:
- watch a film
- film festival
- feature film
- independent film
Common Mistakes When Using Film
Even fluent speakers slip up with “film”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I like to watch films in the television.
- ✓ Correct: I like to watch films on television.
- Why: Use 'on television' not 'in television' when referring to watching TV.
- ✗ Wrong: This film tells the story of a man which lives in the forest.
- ✓ Correct: This film tells the story of a man who lives in the forest.
- Why: Use 'who' for people, not 'which'.
Other Forms of Film
Frequently Asked Questions About Film
What is the meaning of "Film"?
A movie or video created to tell a story or show events.
How do you pronounce "Film"?
The IPA is /fɪlm/. Pronounced like 'film' with a short 'i' sound, rhyming with 'hill'.
What part of speech is "Film"?
"Film" is a noun at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Film"?
Common synonyms include movie, picture, motion picture.
How do you use "Film" in a sentence?
For example: "We watched a great film at the cinema last night."