motion pictures

USAGE SUMMARY

"motion pictures" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to films or movies. For example: "Motion pictures have been around since the late 19th century."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Or motion pictures.

The New Yorker

It's motion pictures.

The Guardian - Film

Motion pictures are extremely popular.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Advertising -- Motion pictures -- United States.

Cornell University

Look at the history of motion pictures.

The New York Times

Instant motion pictures were introduced in 1977.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

But steer clear of motion-pictures stars.

The New Yorker

Entertainment Studios Motion Pictures/Photofest.

Stanford University

Part 4, Motion Pictures & Filmstrips.

Columbia University

Motion Pictures, Catalog of Copyright Entries.

Columbia University

Portable Exhibition Outfits for Motion Pictures.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "motion pictures" when a formal or slightly elevated tone is desired, particularly in academic or professional writing. This term offers a more sophisticated alternative to "movies" or "films".

Common error

Avoid using "motion pictures" in very casual conversation; stick to more common terms like "movies" or "films" to maintain a natural and appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "motion pictures" functions primarily as a noun, specifically a plural noun, referring to the art form, industry, or individual works of film. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "motion pictures" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, serving as a formal alternative to "movies" or "films". While understood in most contexts, it is most appropriately used in news, academic, and encyclopedic settings. The term functions primarily as a plural noun denoting the art, industry, or individual works of film. When deciding on your vocabulary, consider that related phrases like "films", "movies", and "cinema" can offer subtle differences in tone and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

films

A more concise and common synonym for motion pictures.

movies

An informal and widely used synonym for motion pictures.

cinema

Refers to the art or industry of making motion pictures.

moving pictures

A slightly more descriptive alternative to motion pictures.

the silver screen

A metaphorical term referring to the world of cinema.

flicks

An informal term for motion pictures, often used casually.

picture shows

An older, somewhat dated term for motion pictures.

photoplays

A less common, more formal synonym for motion pictures.

cinematic productions

Emphasizes the production aspect of motion pictures.

screen entertainment

A broader term encompassing any form of entertainment viewed on a screen.

FAQs

What is another way to say "motion pictures"?

You can use alternatives like "films", "movies", or "cinema" depending on the context.

When should I use "motion pictures" instead of "movies"?

Use "motion pictures" when a more formal or elevated tone is desired. "Movies" is generally suitable for informal contexts.

Is "motion pictures" plural or singular?

"Motion pictures" is a plural noun, referring to multiple films or the general concept of cinema. The singular form is "motion picture".

What is the origin of the term "motion pictures"?

The term arose in the early days of cinema to describe the illusion of movement created by rapidly displaying a series of still images.