Teleplay Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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teleplay

[ˈtɛləpleɪ ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

film

A teleplay is a script for a television program or movie that is typically written by a screenwriter.

Synonyms

screenplay, script, teleplay script.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
teleplay	This term is used for the written script of television programs, particularly for dramas and comedies. Her teleplay was picked up by a major TV network Writing a teleplay requires understanding the nuances of television pacing
script	Use this term for the general written text of any performance, such as a play, movie, or TV show, including dialogue and stage directions. She spent all night working on the script for her new play The actor read his script before rehearsal
screenplay	This term is specific to the written text for movies. It includes not only the dialogue but also the actions, characters, and cinematography. He won an award for his brilliant screenplay They are looking for an experienced writer to develop the new screenplay
teleplay script	This is essentially a combination of 'teleplay' and 'script', often used interchangeably with 'teleplay'. It refers to the script prepared specifically for a television show. The teleplay script needed a few more revisions before filming could start He has many years of experience in writing teleplay scripts

Examples of usage

The teleplay for the new TV series was well-received by critics.
She is working on a teleplay for a popular streaming platform.
The teleplay was full of suspense and drama.
The writer spent months perfecting the teleplay for the upcoming movie.
The teleplay was adapted into a successful film.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Impact

Many iconic television series, like 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Cheers', started as teleplays, setting trends and influencing later works.
Teleplays often reflect current societal issues, making them a colorful canvas for discussions about culture, politics, and relationships.
Awards like the Emmy recognize excellence in teleplays, highlighting their significance in the world of entertainment.

Production

Writing a teleplay requires special formatting compared to other scripts, often using software designed for screenwriters.
Teleplays can vary in length: a half-hour show typically has about 30 pages, while an hour-long drama may have around 60 pages.
Collaborative writing is common in this field; many teleplays are created by a team of writers to bring diverse ideas and perspectives.

Evolution

As technology advanced, teleplays evolved with the introduction of new formats like streaming series and webisodes.
The rise of streaming platforms has dramatically changed how teleplays are written and produced, often allowing for more imaginative stories.
Modern teleplays frequently incorporate elements from graphic novels and video games, blurring the lines between different storytelling forms.

Literature

Many famous authors, such as Rod Serling and Aaron Sorkin, started as teleplay writers, showcasing talent across different writing styles.
Teleplays can be considered a form of literary art, combining language, character development, and dramatic tension in a unique format.
Workshops and degrees focusing on teleplay writing have emerged in universities, blending the worlds of literature and screenwriting.

Origin of 'teleplay'

Main points about word origin

The term 'teleplay' combines 'television', meaning TV, and 'play', meaning a story acted out on stage.
First recorded use of 'teleplay' was in the 1940s, when television began to emerge as a popular medium.
The structure of a teleplay often mirrors that of a stage play but includes specific notes for camera angles and scene transitions.

The term 'teleplay' originated in the 1950s during the rise of television as a popular form of entertainment. It combines 'tele-' from 'television' and 'play' from 'playwright,' highlighting its connection to both the medium and the dramatic nature of the content. Teleplays have been an integral part of television and movie production, with writers crafting engaging scripts for audiences to enjoy.