B2noun 1K

Animation

UK /["/ˌænɪˈmeɪʃn/"]/ US /["/ˌænɪˈmeɪʃn/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

the process of making films, videos and computer games in which drawings, models or images of people and animals seem to move

Listen to definition

In simple words: The process of making drawings or images move to tell a story.

Examples

• **computer/cartoon animation**
• The electronic dictionary included some animations.
• His face was drained of all colour and animation.
• She talked about her new job with great animation.

Usage notes

Use 'animation' when talking about movie-making or art. It's appropriate in educational and entertainment contexts, but less common in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'animate' as bringing something to life, like a character dancing!

Collocations

• create an animation
• animation software
• stop motion animation
• animation techniques

Synonyms

• cartoon
• motion graphics
• visual effects
• digital art

Antonyms

• stagnation
• stillness
• inactivity

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'animator' — 'animation' is the process, while 'animator' is the person who creates it.
• Using 'animation' to refer only to cartoons — it can also include 3D graphics and more.
• Omitting details about the type of animation, such as '2D' or '3D'.