voice over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "voiceover" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to dialogue that is heard in film or television programs that is not coming from a character speaking within the scene. Example: The voiceover in the commercial informed viewers that the product was on sale for 50% off.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

MAN'S VOICE (over telephone speaker): Otto?

The New Yorker

WOMAN'S VOICE (over telephone speaker): Mr. Romaner is calling.

The New Yorker

Voice Over was written by Luis Berdejo.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Voice overs!

BBC

QUIZ: Celebrity voice overs.

Los Angeles Times

There was no voice-over.

The New Yorker

"Love is family," says the voice-over.

The New York Times

Basic practical considerations — How much voice-over?

The New York Times

VOICE-OVER: Previously on "BIRDS"... INT.

The New Yorker

"Flood" begins with a bitter voice-over.

The New Yorker

Reeves's voice-over — "War is pain . . .

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "voice over" in scripts, clearly label it as (VO) to distinguish it from on-screen dialogue.

Common error

Avoid using "voice over" to simply restate what is visually obvious in a scene. Use it to provide context, internal thoughts, or information not apparent from the visuals.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "voice over" functions primarily as a noun, often used to describe a technique in film, television, or radio where a voice narrates without being visibly present in the scene. As Ludwig AI describes, it provides commentary or information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "voice over" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase, used to describe a narrative technique in various media. Ludwig AI confirms this and provides examples of its usage in formal and neutral contexts, mainly in news and media. When writing, remember to clearly indicate "voice over" in scripts and use it strategically to add value beyond what's visible on screen. Alternatives like "narration" or "commentary" can be considered depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

audio narration

Combines audio and narration, close to voice-over, with emphasis on audio.

off-screen voice

Highlights the source of the voice being outside the visible scene.

narration

Focuses on the act of telling a story or describing events, omitting the 'voice' aspect.

voice acting

Highlights the performance aspect of providing a voice for a character or narrative.

commentary

Implies a spoken explanation or interpretation, often in real-time or alongside an event.

dubbing

Specifically refers to replacing the original voices in a film or video with new ones.

vocal track

Emphasizes the audio recording of the voice, rather than the act of speaking over.

audio description

Focuses on making visual content accessible to the blind and visually impaired.

spoken words

A general term for speech or dialogue, not necessarily linked to a visual medium.

recitation

Implies a formal and often artistic delivery of a text.

FAQs

What is the purpose of a "voice over" in film?

A "voice over" is used to add narration, provide character's thoughts, or offer additional information that isn't conveyed through visuals or on-screen dialogue.

How do you indicate a "voice over" in a script?

In a script, a "voice over" is typically indicated by writing (VO) after the character's name, such as CHARACTER (VO).

What are some alternatives to using a "voice over"?

Alternatives to a "voice over" include using on-screen dialogue, visual cues, or "showing, don't tell" techniques to convey information.

What's the difference between narration and "voice over"?

While closely related, "voice over" specifically refers to a voice that isn't part of the scene's action, while "narration" is the act of telling a story, whether it's a "voice over" or part of the scene.