a motion picture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a motion picture" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a film or movie, particularly in a formal or traditional context. Example: "The Academy Awards celebrate the best achievements in a motion picture each year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

It's a motion PICTURE!

The New Yorker

A motion picture is in the works.

The New Yorker

There is something about a motion picture.

The New York Times - Arts

In 1951 The Medium was made into a motion picture.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In his professional life he was a Motion Picture executive.

The New York Times

The hall even housed a motion picture company until 1906.

The New York Times

He owned a motion picture studio in Manhattan.

The New York Times

It was made into a motion picture in Sweden.

The New York Times

When you "package" a motion picture, it refers to: a.

The New York Times

Ordet later was made into a motion picture by the Danish director Carl Dryer.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Tempo is not necessarily related to the actual length of a motion picture.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a motion picture" when aiming for a formal or slightly old-fashioned tone. In most contemporary contexts, "a film" or "a movie" is perfectly acceptable.

Common error

Avoid using "a motion picture" in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound overly formal and stilted where simpler alternatives like "movie" or "film" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a motion picture" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, it's used to denote a film or movie. This is consistent with examples found within the search results.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Encyclopedias

24%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a motion picture" is a grammatically correct and widely used noun phrase that refers to a film or movie. While it is accurate in most contexts, Ludwig AI suggests that it leans towards a formal tone, with common usage in "News & Media" and "Encyclopedias". For informal contexts, alternatives like "a film" or "a movie" might be more suitable. While the phrase appears often, remember to adjust your vocabulary for the specific audience and level of formality desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a film

More common and less formal alternative.

a movie

Most common and informal alternative.

a feature film

Specifies a film of standard length.

a cinematic production

Emphasizes the artistic and technical aspects of filmmaking.

a moving picture

A slightly archaic but synonymous term.

a silver screen production

Highlights the traditional medium of film projection.

a screen adaptation

Refers to a film based on another work.

a celluloid creation

References the historical film stock.

a filmed entertainment

Broadly describes any form of filmed media.

a picture show

An older, less formal way to refer to a movie.

FAQs

How can I use "a motion picture" in a sentence?

You can use "a motion picture" to refer to a film or movie, for example, "The director is known for his innovative approach to storytelling in "a motion picture"".

What's the difference between "a motion picture" and "a movie"?

"A motion picture" is a more formal and traditional term, while "a movie" is more commonly used in contemporary, informal contexts. Both refer to the same thing: a film.

What can I say instead of "a motion picture"?

You can use alternatives like "a film" or "a movie", depending on the level of formality you wish to convey.

Is "a motion picture" outdated?

"A motion picture" isn't necessarily outdated, but it's perceived as more formal and less common than "film" or "movie". It can add a touch of classic elegance to your writing.