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Screenplay

UK //ˈskriːmpleɪ// US //ˈskrinpleɪ// Pronunciation

Definition

A written script for a film, television show, or play.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A script for a movie or play.

Examples

• She wrote a captivating screenplay that won several awards.
• The screenplay was adapted from a popular novel.
• His screenplay included complex characters and unexpected twists.
• After many revisions, they finally completed the screenplay.
• Studying a successful screenplay can help new writers learn the craft.
• The director praised the screenplay for its originality.

Usage notes

Used in film and theater contexts. Formal in writing but can be used informally when talking about movies.

Grammar pattern

write + screenplay

Memory hint

Think of a 'screen' and 'play' – a play you watch on a screen.

Collocations

• write a screenplay
• feature screenplay
• original screenplay
• adapted screenplay

Synonyms

• script
• movie script
• film script
• teleplay

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'script' which is broader than screenplay.
• Using 'screenplay' in contexts not related to films.
• Mispronouncing the word due to its compound nature.