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Documentary: meaning, definitions and examples

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documentary

 

[ ˌdɒkjʊˈmɛntəri ]

Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

film

A documentary is a film or television or radio programme that provides a factual report on a particular subject. It aims to educate, inform, and raise awareness about real-life events, people, and issues.

Synonyms

film, program, video.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
documentary

Used to describe a non-fiction film or TV program that provides a factual report on a particular subject. Often used in academic or professional settings.

  • We watched a documentary about climate change in geography class.
  • The documentary on wildlife conservation was enlightening.
film

A general term for any movie, whether fictional or non-fictional. Often used in casual conversations or when referring to cinema and entertainment.

  • We saw an amazing film at the festival last night.
  • The film was directed by a famous filmmaker.
video

A broad term that encompasses any recorded moving images with sound. Can be used for short clips, online content, or home recordings. Informal and versatile.

  • She uploaded a funny video to YouTube.
  • Let's make a video of our trip to share with friends.
program

Typically refers to a television or radio broadcast. Common in everyday conversations about scheduled TV shows or radio broadcasts.

  • My favorite TV program comes on every Monday night.
  • That radio program is really informative.

Examples of usage

  • The documentary exposed the harsh living conditions in the slums.
  • This documentary explores the history of ancient civilizations.
  • The documentary received critical acclaim for its in-depth analysis.
  • She decided to watch a documentary instead of a fictional movie.
  • The documentary shed light on the impact of climate change.

Translations

Translations of the word "documentary" in other languages:

🇵🇹 documentário

🇮🇳 दस्तावेज़ी फिल्म

🇩🇪 Dokumentarfilm

🇮🇩 dokumenter

🇺🇦 документальний фільм

🇵🇱 film dokumentalny

🇯🇵 ドキュメンタリー

🇫🇷 documentaire

🇪🇸 documental

🇹🇷 belgesel

🇰🇷 다큐멘터리

🇸🇦 وثائقي

🇨🇿 dokumentární film

🇸🇰 dokumentárny film

🇨🇳 纪录片

🇸🇮 dokumentarni film

🇮🇸 heimildarmynd

🇰🇿 деректі фильм

🇬🇪 დოკუმენტური ფილმი

🇦🇿 sənədli film

🇲🇽 documental

Etymology

The word 'documentary' originated from the word 'document' in the early 20th century. It was first used to describe a non-fiction film that documented reality. The genre became increasingly popular over the years, with documentaries being made on a wide range of subjects from nature and history to social issues and politics. Documentaries have the power to provoke thought, spark conversation, and shed light on important topics.

See also: documentarian, documentation, documented, documenting, documents, undocumented.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,729 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.