What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
film
Example
The director used black and white film to give the movie a vintage look. [film: noun]
Example
She studied film in college and learned about cinematography and editing. [film: noun]
movie
Example
Let's go see a movie at the theater tonight. [movie: noun]
Example
He loves to watch action movies with lots of explosions and car chases. [movie: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Movie is more commonly used than film in everyday language. Movie is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while film is less common and is typically used in academic or critical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between film and movie?
Film is typically associated with a more formal and intellectual tone, while movie is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.