In this weekly post, we bring more useful content from the Macmillan Dictionary to English language learners. These tips are usually based on areas of English which learners find difficult, e.g. spelling, grammar, collocation, synonyms, etc.
This week’s language tip helps with key words which are used for talking or writing about television programmes.
sitcom: a type of humorous programme in which the same characters regularly appear in funny situations from ordinary life
drama: any serious programme that tells a story
soap: a type of programme in which the same small group of characters regularly appear in situations that are intended to be similar to those of ordinary life
chat show: a programme in which a well-known person interviews famous people
talk show: a programme in which ordinary people discuss their personal problems in front of an audience
game show: a programme in which people compete to win prizes
documentary: a programme that deals with facts or historical events
the news: a programme that provides the latest information about the day’s events, politics, and other subjects of general interest
current affairs programme: a programme about politics or other subjects that are being discussed in the news
series: a group of related programmes that are broadcast over a period of time: a drama/comedy/documentary series
serial: a long drama that is broadcast in parts, in a series of programmes
episode: a single programme of a series
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A relatively recent addition to the list is structured (or scripted) reality – shows like The Only Way is Essex (TOWIE) and Made in Chelsea, along with their many imitators. Beautifully described by Kerry Maxwell here: http://www.macmillandictionary.com/buzzword/entries/structured-reality.html