Optioned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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optioned
[ˈɒp.ʃən ]
Definition
media production
The term 'optioned' refers to the act of acquiring the rights to a piece of creative work, such as a book or screenplay, for potential future adaptation into a film or television show. This process involves a producer or studio paying the original creator a sum of money for the exclusive right to develop their work. An option typically grants a specified period during which the buyer can decide whether to proceed with the project. If the project is ultimately greenlit, a subsequent agreement may be reached for a more extensive deal. The term is commonly used in the film and television industry.
Synonyms
acquired rights, licensed content, secured adaptation.
Examples of usage
- The studio optioned the novel for adaptation.
- She optioned her screenplay to a major production company.
- Several producers have optioned the story for film rights.
Translations
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Origin of 'optioned'
The word 'optioned' is derived from the noun 'option', which itself comes from the Latin 'optio', meaning 'choice' or 'the act of choosing'. In the context of media and literature, the use of 'option' gained traction in the 20th century as the film industry expanded and producers sought ways to secure intellectual property for adaptations. The transition to 'optioned' as a verb reflects the increasing importance of contracts and options in the creative industries. In essence, to be 'optioned' signifies that the creative work has been recognized for its potential value in the cinematic or television landscape.