special effects

NOUN

special film techniques

Synonyms

WEAK

FX animation mechanical effects optical effects process photography

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Yellowstone elevated television to a new level, and did so without special effects or CGI, but instead via a combination of compelling story, strong writing and acting, and cinematography that rivaled that of movies.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

Developing longer stories with less money, the TV shows makers need to be inventive, creative with their resources, so they invest in characters and ideas rather than special effects and action.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 26, 2026

There are no special effects, music or flashing lights, just a quiet nostalgic drive through what feels like a sparkling forest.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 6, 2025

Russell Tovey says that's thanks to the work of the show's set designers, as well as its special effects team.

From BBC • Dec. 5, 2025

But then Laleh started talking again, making fun of the special effects.

From "Darius the Great Is Not Okay" by Adib Khorram