Learning film-related vocabulary can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. Whether you're preparing for the Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking sections, having a strong understanding of terms commonly used in the film industry can give you an edge.
This specialised vocabulary not only broadens your language skills but also helps you understand and engage with a variety of contexts and topics. Let's explore some essential film-related words and phrases that will boost your IELTS score and improve your overall communication abilities.
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Importance of using rich vocabulary related to film in your IELTS test
Using rich vocabulary related to film in your IELTS test, particularly in the Speaking and Writing sections, can help you score your desired IELTS band. Here’s why it’s important:
Demonstrates range and accuracy: Using a diverse set of film-related terms showcases your range of vocabulary and precision in language use. It helps examiners see your ability to use specific and appropriate words in context.
Enhances cohesion and coherence: Rich vocabulary allows you to connect ideas smoothly, making your speech and writing more coherent. Using varied terms prevents repetition and keeps your content engaging.
Shows depth of knowledge: Discussing films with specialised vocabulary shows your in-depth understanding of the topic. It reflects your ability to handle complex topics, a skill highly valued in the IELTS exam.
Engages the examiner: Interesting and well-chosen words can make your responses more engaging, leaving a positive impression on the examiner. This can potentially boost your overall score.
List of IELTS vocabulary related to film
Here is the list of IELTS vocabulary words with meaning and examples related to the film that you can consider using in your IELTS test to score higher:
Vocabulary Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
Cinematography | The art of making motion pictures, especially the use of camera work and lighting | The cinematography in the film was breathtaking, with stunning visuals and creative camera angles. |
Screenplay | The script of a film, including dialogue and instructions for actors and crew | The screenplay of "Inception" is complex, with multiple layers of storytelling that keep the audience engaged. |
Genre | A category of artistic composition characterised by similarities in form, style, or subject matter | My favourite film genre is science fiction because it explores futuristic concepts and imaginative worlds. |
Director | The person who supervises the actors and film crew in the making of a film | Steven Spielberg is a renowned director known for his work on films like "Jurassic Park" and "E.T." |
Plot | The main events of a film devised and presented by the writer as an interrelated sequence | The plot of "The Shawshank Redemption" revolves around the life of a man wrongly imprisoned and his journey to freedom. |
Character Development | The process of creating a believable character in fiction by giving them depth and personality | The character development in the film was remarkable, with the protagonist evolving significantly from start to finish. |
Special Effects | Visual or sound effects introduced into a film to create a particular effect | The special effects in "Avatar" were groundbreaking, creating an immersive and visually stunning world. |
Editing | The process of selecting and combining shots into a coherent sequence | The editing of the film was seamless, ensuring that the story flowed smoothly from one scene to the next. |
Soundtrack | The music that accompanies a film | The soundtrack of "The Lion King" features iconic songs that enhance the emotional impact of the story. |
Performance | The act of performing a role in a film | The lead actor’s performance was captivating, bringing depth and realism to the character. |
Critical Acclaim | Praise from critics | The film received critical acclaim for its innovative storytelling and powerful performances. |
Narrative | The structured storyline or account of events in a film | The narrative of the film was non-linear, jumping between different periods to reveal the backstory. |
Dialogue | The conversation between characters in a film | The dialogue in the film was witty and well-written, adding to the overall charm of the characters. |
Protagonist | The main character in a film | The protagonist of the film undergoes significant growth, facing numerous challenges along the way. |
Antagonist | A character who opposes the protagonist | The antagonist in the movie was a complex character, whose motivations were revealed gradually. |
Setting | The time and place in which the story of a film occurs | The setting of the film was a dystopian future where technology had taken over human lives. |
Theme | The central topic or idea explored in a film | The theme of the movie centered around the importance of family and the sacrifices made for loved ones. |
Cinematic Techniques | Methods employed by filmmakers to convey messages and evoke responses | The director used various cinematic techniques, such as slow motion and close-up shots, to heighten the emotional impact of key scenes. |
Box Office | The commercial success of a film in terms of revenue generated | The film broke box office records, becoming one of the highest-grossing movies of all time. |
Sequel | A film that continues the story of a previous one | The sequel to the blockbuster hit picked up where the original film left off, continuing the adventures of the main characters. |
Cinematography | The art of making motion pictures, especially the use of camera work and lighting | The cinematography in the film was breathtaking, with stunning visuals and creative camera angles. |
Screenplay | The script of a film, including dialogue and instructions for actors and crew | The screenplay of "Inception" is complex, with multiple layers of storytelling that keep the audience engaged. |
Genre | A category of artistic composition characterised by similarities in form, style, or subject matter | My favorite film genre is science fiction because it explores futuristic concepts and imaginative worlds. |
Director | The person who supervises the actors and film crew in the making of a film | Steven Spielberg is a renowned director known for his work on films like "Jurassic Park" and "E.T." |
Plot | The main events of a film devised and presented by the writer as an interrelated sequence | The plot of "The Shawshank Redemption" revolves around the life of a man wrongly imprisoned and his journey to freedom. |
Character Development | The process of creating a believable character in fiction by giving them depth and personality | The character development in the film was remarkable, with the protagonist evolving significantly from start to finish. |
Special Effects | Visual or sound effects are introduced into a film to create a particular effect | The special effects in "Avatar" were groundbreaking, creating an immersive and visually stunning world. |
Editing | The process of selecting and combining shots into a coherent sequence | The editing of the film was seamless, ensuring that the story flowed smoothly from one scene to the next. |
Soundtrack | The music that accompanies a film | The soundtrack of "The Lion King" features iconic songs that enhance the emotional impact of the story. |
Performance | The act of performing a role in a film | The lead actor’s performance was captivating, bringing depth and realism to the character. |
Film-related questions asked in the IELTS Speaking test
Here are some example questions related to film that might be asked in the IELTS Speaking test as a topic:
Part 1: Introduction and interview
In this part, the examiner will ask general questions about yourself and a range of familiar topics. Here are some film-related questions you might have to answer:
Do you like watching movies?
What types of films do you enjoy watching?
How often do you watch films?
Do you prefer watching films at home or in a cinema? Why?
Who is your favourite actor or actress? Why do you like them?
What is your favourite film and why?
Have you ever watched a film more than once? Which one and why?
Part 2: Long turn (Cue card)
In this part, you will be given a topic and have one minute to prepare. You will then speak for one to two minutes on the topic. Here are some sample topics related to films:
1. Describe a film you recently watched.
What is the name of the film?
What is the film about?
Why did you choose to watch this film?
Explain how you felt about this film.
2. Describe your favourite film.
What is the name of the film?
What is the genre of the film?
Who are the main characters?
Explain why this film is your favourite.
Part 3: Discussion
In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic in Part 2. Here are some film-related discussion questions:
How do films influence people?
Do you think films can change society? In what way?
What are the differences between films made in your country and films made in other countries?
How important are subtitles and dubbing in films for foreign audiences?
Do you think films should always reflect reality? Why or why not?
What is the role of film directors in the success of a movie?
How has the film industry changed over the last decade?
Hope these vocabulary words improve your language skills and help you effectively discuss film-related questions asked in your IELTS exam. We recommend you include these words in your learning to score a high band in the IELTS test.
If you want to know more about the IELTS test, you can get in touch with your nearest IDP IELTS test centre. Our team of IELTS experts will guide you with all your doubts.