binge-watch: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Informal, colloquial
Quick answer
What does “binge-watch” mean?
To watch multiple episodes of a television series in rapid succession, typically in a single sitting or over a very short period.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To watch multiple episodes of a television series in rapid succession, typically in a single sitting or over a very short period.
The act of engaging in prolonged, intensive media consumption, often of serialised content, as a deliberate leisure activity, sometimes to the point of neglecting other tasks.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is typically hyphenated in both varieties, though 'binge watch' (open compound) is also seen.
Connotations
Equally common and casual in both varieties. Slightly associated with younger demographics and the rise of streaming platforms.
Frequency
Extremely high and comparable frequency in both UK and US English due to global media trends.
Grammar
How to Use “binge-watch” in a Sentence
[Someone] binge-watches [something][Someone] binge-watchesgo on a binge-watching [spree/session]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “binge-watch” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We're going to binge-watch the whole box set this bank holiday weekend.
- She binge-watched the entire series of the detective drama in two days.
American English
- I binge-watched the new season over the Thanksgiving break.
- They plan to binge-watch the show as soon as all episodes drop.
adverb
British English
- (Rarely used as a standalone adverb; typically 'binge-watching' as gerund) They spent the day binge-watching.
American English
- (Rarely used as a standalone adverb) We watched the show binge-style over two days.
adjective
British English
- He went on a massive binge-watch session after his exams.
- Binge-watch culture has changed how we consume television.
American English
- We had a binge-watch weekend with pizza and no distractions.
- The show is perfect for a binge-watch experience.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in media/streaming industry reports to discuss consumer behaviour and platform engagement metrics.
Academic
Rare in formal writing; may appear in media studies, sociology, or psychology papers on consumption habits.
Everyday
Extremely common in casual conversation about TV shows, films, and streaming services.
Technical
Not typically used in technical contexts outside of user analytics for media platforms.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “binge-watch”
- Incorrect: 'I binge-watched one movie.' (A single film is not 'binge-watching'; it requires multiple episodes/parts.)
- Incorrect: 'We binge-watched every Sunday.' (Implies a habitual activity, whereas binge-watching is a single intensive event.)
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The standard and most common form is hyphenated: 'binge-watch'. You may occasionally see it as one word ('bingewatch') or two words ('binge watch'), but the hyphenated version is preferred in edited writing.
Typically, 'binge-watch' refers to serialised content with episodes. Watching multiple movies in a row is usually called a 'movie marathon'. However, if the movies are part of a series (e.g., all Harry Potter films), some speakers might use 'binge-watch' informally.
They are largely synonymous. 'Binge-watch' specifically implies watching TV/streaming content, often with a connotation of indulgence. 'Marathon' can be used more broadly (a gaming marathon, a movie marathon) and can sound slightly less passive.
It is generally a neutral or positive informal term for a popular leisure activity. In certain contexts (e.g., psychology, time management), it can carry a negative connotation of overindulgence or procrastination.
To watch multiple episodes of a television series in rapid succession, typically in a single sitting or over a very short period.
Binge-watch is usually informal, colloquial in register.
Binge-watch: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbɪndʒ ˌwɒtʃ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbɪndʒ ˌwɑːtʃ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A binge-watching spree”
- “To go on a binge-watch”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'binge' (like eating too much at once) + 'watch'. You're feasting on episodes instead of food.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONSUMING MEDIA IS CONSUMING FOOD (devour a series, feast your eyes, a TV marathon).
Practice
Quiz
Which scenario best describes 'binge-watching'?