animated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "animated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is lively, full of energy, or characterized by movement, often in the context of cartoons or lively discussions. Example: "The animated discussion among the team members brought new ideas to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This year's Oscar errors extend to the smallest end of the scale: in both the live action and animated short film categories, voters managed to pluck the least exciting option.

The Guardian - Film

One new graphic, called the Battle of Britain, will show animated seats flying from the floor of the studio onto the blue screen as seats are either lost or gained.

The Guardian

The occasion was the announcement of his forthcoming title defense against Philadelphia's Bryant Jennings – Klitschko's first fight on American soil in eight years – and found the longtime champion mostly animated and in high spirits.

The Guardian - Sport

The network also cancelled expensive flop Terra Nova (proof that dinosaurs do not always equal hit show), JJ Abrams' produced Alcatraz, Bones spin-off The Finder, animated shows Allen Gregory and Napoleon Dynamite and sitcoms I Hate My Teenage Daughter and the Christian Slater-led Breaking In.

The Guardian

He accepts the question graciously but becomes animated, leaning back in his chair and waving his arms, as though the memory - whatever he may say to the contrary - stings.

The Guardian - Film

European integration has long ceased to be animated by passions and ideals which could be viewed as distinctly Catholic.

The Guardian - Opinion

Many grasses don't come into their own until midsummer and often carry on much longer, animated by autumn and winter winds.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

His manner is slightly awkward, vagueness punctuated by sudden bursts of lyricism; he has a reputation for being glum but is engagingly animated, if only periodically.

The Guardian - Music

He is forceful in putting his points, animated, on the attack.

The Guardian

It has only really won in 1945 ["a country fit for heroes"], in 1964 [on the scientific and technological challenges of the 1960s] and in 1997 [on economic and social modernisation, a compelling vision of national renewal] – when it speaks in deeper, animated language about national prosperity and collective endeavour.

The Guardian

In the absence of regular pronouncements, there has been much animated speculation about why he did what he did, who has the material he took, and what kind of damage he has done.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing films or series, specify if it is an "animated film" or "animated series" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "animated" excessively in formal or academic writing where more precise descriptors might be more suitable. For example, instead of saying "the animated debate", consider "the lively debate" or "the spirited discussion".

Linguistic Context

The primary function of "animated" is as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe something that is full of life, energy, or movement. Ludwig examples show it describing discussions, people, films and graphics. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Film

10%

Sport

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Books

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "animated" is a versatile adjective used to describe something full of life, energy, or movement, and it is considered grammatically correct by Ludwig AI. As shown in the Ludwig examples, it's frequently used in News & Media, Film, and Sport contexts. While the term is suitable for neutral to informal registers, you might consider more precise descriptors in formal or academic writing. Alternative words such as "lively" and "spirited" may be considered as potential replacements depending on the context. With these usage guidelines, you can confidently incorporate the word "animated" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

energetic

Directly points to being full of energy.

lively

Focuses on the energetic and enthusiastic quality.

full of life

Emphasizes the presence of vitality and energy.

spirited

Highlights enthusiasm and courage.

vigorous

Indicates strength and energy.

dynamic

Suggests constant change and activity.

vibrant

Conveys richness and intensity of color or energy.

vivacious

Implies attractiveness along with liveliness.

effervescent

Suggests bubbling enthusiasm and excitement.

brisk

Conveys quickness and liveliness.

FAQs

How to use "animated" in a sentence?

You can use "animated" to describe something full of life or vigor, such as "The speaker gave an animated presentation" or to refer to movies or series that are animated, such as "Have you seen the new animated film?".

What can I say instead of "animated"?

You can use alternatives like "lively", "spirited", or "energetic" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "animated discussion" or "animate discussion"?

"Animated discussion" is correct. "Animated" is the adjective form, describing the discussion as lively. "Animate" is a verb meaning to give life to something.

What's the difference between "animated" and "animate"?

"Animated" is an adjective describing something full of life or made using animation techniques. "Animate" is a verb meaning to bring to life or to give movement to.