practical effects

USAGE SUMMARY

"practical effects" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to physical special effects that are created in real life, rather than digitally. For example, "The movie used practical effects to create a realistic looking fire."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Practical effects".

The New Yorker

They have practical effects.

The New York Times

This future-oriented mentality had practical effects.

The New York Times

What are the practical effects of this?

The New York Times

But the practical effects of the penalties will be minimal.

The New York Times

That makes the practical effects of Mr. Abbas's declaration unclear.

The New York Times

They don't call 'em "practical" effects for nothing.

The New Yorker

The practical effects of yesterday's decision could be more limited.

The New York Times

What type of practical effects will this have?

The Guardian

But some of the practical effects are also worrying.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Tom Sepe, Prototyping and Practical Effects Desmond Shea, Systems Engineer.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical writing, clarify what "practical effects" entail in your specific context, as the term can be broad and might require additional explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "practical effects" interchangeably with CGI (computer-generated imagery). "Practical effects" are created physically, while CGI is digital. Misusing the terms can lead to confusion about the methods used.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "practical effects" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It refers to special effects achieved through physical means rather than computer-generated imagery.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "practical effects" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that refers to physical special effects created in real life, as opposed to digital effects. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Predominantly found in News & Media, it is also present in Science, Wiki, Formal & Business and Encyclopedias, this term serves to describe and highlight specific film production techniques emphasizing realism and craftsmanship. When writing, be sure to distinguish between "practical effects" and CGI to avoid confusion. Highlighting the distinction sets the tone of the medium it describes. Related terms include "physical effects" and "real-world effects", offering nuanced alternatives depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

physical effects

Focuses on the physicality of the effects, emphasizing the tangible nature.

real-world effects

Highlights the effects as they manifest in a non-simulated environment.

in-camera effects

Specific to film, referring to effects achieved during filming rather than in post-production.

special effects

A broader term, encompassing both practical and digital techniques, but still related.

tangible effects

Emphasizes the effects that can be perceived through touch or other senses.

actual effects

Highlights the genuineness and non-artificiality of the effects.

hands-on effects

Emphasizes the manual creation and application of the effects.

non-digital effects

Specifies that the effects are created without the use of computer-generated imagery.

practical consequences

Shifts the focus from visual to the result that occurs in reality.

real effects

A shorter and less specific version of "real-world effects".

FAQs

How do you use "practical effects" in a sentence?

"Practical effects" are used to describe physical effects created on set during filming, like explosions or makeup. For example, "The film relied heavily on "practical effects" instead of CGI to create a more realistic feel."

What is the difference between "practical effects" and special effects?

"Special effects" is a broad term encompassing all types of effects used in film and media, including both physical and digital methods. "Practical effects" specifically refer to effects achieved through physical means, excluding CGI. Therefore, "practical effects" are a subset of special effects.

What are some examples of "practical effects"?

Examples of "practical effects" include makeup, prosthetics, animatronics, miniatures, pyrotechnics, and set design. These are all physical techniques used to create visual effects in film and television.

Why are "practical effects" sometimes preferred over CGI?

"Practical effects" can offer a sense of realism and tangibility that is often difficult to replicate with CGI. Many filmmakers and audiences appreciate the authenticity and artistry of "practical effects", finding them more immersive and visually impressive.