computer animation: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Medium to HighTechnical, Academic, General (in media contexts)
Quick answer
What does “computer animation” mean?
The art and process of creating moving images using computers, where successive frames are generated digitally.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The art and process of creating moving images using computers, where successive frames are generated digitally.
The industry, technique, and final product (such as a film or sequence) of generating animated visuals through computer software, often simulating motion or telling a story.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major lexical differences. British English may be more likely to use 'CGI' as a broad synonym in general media. The spelling 'computerised' vs. 'computerized' applies only to related adjectives.
Connotations
In both varieties, strongly associated with the film/TV/video game industries. In academic contexts, it denotes a specific field of study.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties. The term is globally standardised in the tech and creative industries.
Grammar
How to Use “computer animation” in a Sentence
to create/design/produce + computer animation (for + project)specialise in + computer animationcomputer animation + is used/features in + filmwork with + computer animationthe + computer animation + is + adjective (e.g., stunning, seamless)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “computer animation” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- They will computer-animate the entire sequence.
- We computer-animated the character using new software.
American English
- They will computer-animate the whole scene.
- We computer-animated the monster with the latest tools.
adverb
British English
- The film was produced computer-animation-wise entirely in London.
- (Adverbial use is very rare; the phrase is typically a noun compound)
American English
- The show is created computer-animation-heavy, with little live action.
- (Adverbial use is very rare; the phrase is typically a noun compound)
adjective
British English
- She is a computer-animation specialist.
- It was a computer-animation masterpiece.
American English
- He works in the computer-animation industry.
- It's a leading computer-animation school.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to a service, product line, or sector. 'Our company's main revenue stream is computer animation for advertising.'
Academic
Denotes a discipline, technique, or area of research. 'Her thesis explores narrative structures in early computer animation.'
Everyday
Used when discussing films, games, or videos. 'The computer animation in that kids' movie is incredible.'
Technical
Specifies methods, software, and rendering techniques. 'This shot requires advanced computer animation using keyframe interpolation.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “computer animation”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “computer animation”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “computer animation”
- Using 'cartoon' as a direct synonym (cartoons can be hand-drawn).
- Incorrectly pluralising as 'computer animations' when referring to the field (e.g., 'He works in computer animation', not 'computer animations').
- Misspelling as 'computer animated' when a noun is needed.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They are closely related and often used interchangeably in casual speech. However, 'CGI' (Computer-Generated Imagery) is a broader term that includes both static images and animation, while 'computer animation' specifically refers to moving images.
2D computer animation creates movement in a two-dimensional artistic space (like digital drawings), while 3D computer animation uses three-dimensional digital models that are manipulated within a virtual space to create motion, offering depth and realism.
Not precisely. A 'cartoon' is a style of humorous or simplified drawing/animation. While a cartoon can be made via computer animation, not all computer animation is cartoonish (e.g., realistic dinosaurs in 'Jurassic Park').
Popular professional software includes Autodesk Maya, Blender (free), Cinema 4D, and Houdini. The choice depends on the style (2D/3D) and industry needs (film, games, etc.).
The art and process of creating moving images using computers, where successive frames are generated digitally.
Computer animation is usually technical, academic, general (in media contexts) in register.
Computer animation: in British English it is pronounced /kəmˈpjuː.tər ˌæn.ɪˈmeɪ.ʃən/, and in American English it is pronounced /kəmˈpjuː.t̬ɚ ˌæn.əˈmeɪ.ʃən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To bring something to life through computer animation”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a COMPUTER giving life (ANIMation, from 'anima' meaning soul/life) to digital characters.
Conceptual Metaphor
ANIMATION IS A PUPPETEER (the animator controls the digital puppet).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is most specific to the term 'computer animation'?