Script: meaning, definitions and examples

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script

[skrɪpt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

writing

Script refers to a written version of a play, movie, or broadcast. It includes dialogue, stage directions, and other elements necessary for production.

Synonyms

manuscript, screenplay, text.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
script	A prepared text for films, television shows, plays, or broadcasts. Used in various audiovisual media to guide actors and directors. The director handed out the new script to the cast. The screenwriter finished the script just before the deadline.
screenplay	A written work by screenwriters for a film, describing the story, dialogue, and instructions for the cinematography. Used exclusively in the context of films and television. He won an award for his groundbreaking screenplay. The director made numerous changes to the original screenplay.
manuscript	An author's written or typed document of a book, article, or other literary work before it is published. Often used in the context of academic or literary works. She submitted her manuscript to the publishing house. The manuscript was over 200 pages long.
text	The actual written words of any document, message, or literary piece. Used broadly in many contexts including books, articles, messages, and more. The text of the novel was deeply moving. She sent a text message to confirm the meeting time.

Examples of usage

The actors rehearsed the script for the upcoming play.
The screenwriter worked on the script for the new film.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

programming

Script is a set of instructions written in a programming language that tells a computer what to do. It is often used for automation and task automation.

Synonyms

code, macro, program.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
script	Similar in use to the first 'script' entry, for automating tasks, often in web development or system administration. The startup script initializes all the services. A Python script was used to scrape data from the website.
code	A general term for text written by a programmer in a programming language. Can refer to segments of a program or the entirety of it. The code for this app is well-documented. She spent the weekend debugging her code.
program	A complete and functional software application. This term is used when referring to comprehensive projects rather than small tasks. She developed a program to manage the company's inventory. The new program allows users to edit photos easily.
macro	A set of instructions that automates tasks in applications like spreadsheets or word processors. Often used to repeat common or complex sequences of actions. He created a macro to format the cells in Excel. Macros can save a lot of time in repetitive tasks.

Examples of usage

She wrote a script to automate the data analysis process.
The web developer created a script to validate user input.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

acting

To script means to write a script or plan out a performance in detail.

Synonyms

compose, draft, write.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
script	A script is used in the context of creating texts for films, plays, or television. It is specifically tailored for actors and directors. She handed the script to the director for approval. The script for the new movie is incredibly well-written.
write	Write is the most general term and can be used in any context where something is being put into written form. It is not specific to any format or style. Please write a thank you note to your teacher. He likes to write letters to his grandparents every weekend.
compose	Compose is used when creating something artistic, such as music, poetry, or any formal piece of writing. It implies a sense of structure and creativity. He loves to compose classical music in his free time. She composed a beautiful poem for the literary magazine.
draft	Draft refers to the initial version of a piece of writing. It can be used for almost any kind of writing, including essays, articles, and books. She is currently working on the first draft of her novel. The draft will need a lot of revisions before it's ready for publication.

Examples of usage

The director scripted the entire scene for the actors.
She carefully scripted her lines for the audition.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'script' comes from the Latin 'scriptum,' which means 'something written.'
In ancient times, scripts were used for religious texts and important documents, shaping how stories were shared.
The transition from handwritten scripts to printed scripts in the 15th century marked a significant shift in literature and theatre.

Science

In computer science, 'scripts' are small programs or code that automate tasks, similar to how a play has directions for actors.
Scripting languages, like Python or JavaScript, help in writing instructions for computers, making them behave in specific ways.
Scientists often use 'scripts' in experiments to ensure procedures are followed correctly, much like a script in a play.

Pop Culture

Many iconic films and TV shows started as simple scripts that went through revisions before becoming blockbusters.
The success of spoken words in popular music can be compared to scripts; song lyrics tell a story and evoke emotions.
Famous screenwriters, like Quentin Tarantino and Nora Ephron, have created scripts that not only entertain but also influence culture.

Literature

In literature, a 'script' typically refers to the dialogue and stage directions for a play, enabling a visual story to unfold.
Some novels are written in a script format, providing a unique storytelling approach that's different from traditional prose.
Classic plays like Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' have scripts that are studied for their intricate language and character development.

Education

Scripts are often used in classrooms to help students develop skills in acting, writing, and reading comprehension.
Teachers may use scriptwriting exercises to encourage creativity and teamwork among students.
Script analysis is a valuable lesson in drama programs, teaching students to interpret and perform complex characters.

Translations

Translations of the word "script" in other languages:

🇵🇹 roteiro

🇮🇳 लिपि

🇩🇪 Drehbuch

🇮🇩 naskah

🇺🇦 сценарій

🇵🇱 scenariusz

🇯🇵 脚本 (きゃくほん)

🇫🇷 scénario

🇪🇸 guión

🇹🇷 senaryo

🇰🇷 대본

🇸🇦 نص

🇨🇿 scénář

🇸🇰 scenár

🇨🇳 剧本

🇸🇮 scenarij

🇮🇸 handrit

🇰🇿 сценарий

🇬🇪 სცენარი

🇦🇿 ssenari

🇲🇽 guión

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,315 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
6312 delegate
6313 destiny
6314 moist
6315 script
6316 bride
6317 lesion
6318 treasure
...