road movie: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
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Quick answer
What does “road movie” mean?
A film genre in which the main characters embark on a journey, typically by road, and the journey is central to the plot.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A film genre in which the main characters embark on a journey, typically by road, and the journey is central to the plot.
Refers to narratives, real or fictional, that involve transformative journeys, often symbolizing personal growth, escape, or exploration of identity.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning; the term is used identically in both varieties.
Connotations
In American English, strongly connotes iconic films like 'Easy Rider' and the American Dream; in British English, may include films like 'The Trip' with more localized humor.
Frequency
Equally common in film-related discussions in both regions, though slightly more prevalent in American pop culture references.
Grammar
How to Use “road movie” in a Sentence
noun + about (e.g., a road movie about friendship)noun + featuring (e.g., a road movie featuring a duo)noun + set in (e.g., a road movie set in Australia)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “road movie” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The film had a road-movie feel to it.
- She enjoys road-movie aesthetics.
American English
- It's a road movie style narrative.
- He analyzed road movie elements in class.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used; may appear in film industry contexts like genre marketing or production pitches.
Academic
Common in film studies, cultural studies, and literature courses discussing genre theory and narrative structures.
Everyday
Frequently used in casual conversations about movies, recommendations, and entertainment reviews.
Technical
Employed in film criticism, genre analysis, and screenwriting to describe thematic and structural elements.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “road movie”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “road movie”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “road movie”
- Spelling as one word 'roadmovie' without a space
- Using it to describe any film with car scenes or travel, regardless of narrative focus.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A road movie is defined by its focus on a journey, typically by road, that drives the narrative, character development, and often explores themes like freedom or self-discovery.
No, road movies can originate from any culture; however, the genre is prominently associated with American cinema due to iconic films like 'Easy Rider'.
Typically no, as movement and travel are essential to the genre, though some experimental films may subvert this by focusing on psychological journeys.
Classic examples include 'Easy Rider' (American), 'Thelma & Louise' (American), 'Little Miss Sunshine' (American), and 'The Trip' (British).
A film genre in which the main characters embark on a journey, typically by road, and the journey is central to the plot.
Road movie is usually neutral in register.
Road movie: in British English it is pronounced /rəʊd ˈmuːvi/, and in American English it is pronounced /roʊd ˈmuːvi/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a movie where the road is like a character, guiding the story forward.
Conceptual Metaphor
Life is a journey; the road represents the path to self-discovery or escape.
Practice
Quiz
What is a defining characteristic of a road movie?