slow motion: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

As a noun phrase, it is two words: 'slow motion'. When used as a modifier before another noun, it is often hyphenated: 'slow-motion replay'. Both forms are correct, but hyphenation is preferred in formal writing for clarity.

Not traditionally. It is a noun phrase. Informally, in media contexts, you might hear 'slow-motion that clip' or 'let's slow-mo it', but these are colloquial back-formations. The standard phrasing is 'play it in slow motion' or 'film it in slow motion'.

They are opposites. 'Slow motion' makes fast action appear slower by capturing more frames per second. 'Time-lapse' makes slow, long-term action (like a sunset or plant growth) appear faster by capturing fewer frames over a long period and playing them at normal speed.

Use the phrase 'in slow motion' to describe any situation that feels unnaturally or dramatically slow, often during shock, concentration, or disaster. E.g., 'As the car skidded towards me, the whole world shifted into slow motion.'

A technique in film and video where action appears to happen more slowly than in real life, achieved by filming at a higher frame rate and playing back at normal speed.

Slow motion is usually neutral to informal; common in media, sports commentary, and everyday description. in register.

Slow motion: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsləʊ ˈməʊʃ(ə)n/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsloʊ ˈmoʊʃ(ə)n/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.