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.

Umba, the movement specialist underneath the simian special effects, is convincing.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 9, 2026

Mr. Birney has a mesmerizing ability to create special effects via the simplest measures, such as by creating a shimmering, magical figure out of what looks like simply an overexposed bit of film.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 8, 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

He wasn’t sure if it was from yesterday’s head injury, Phorcys’s special effects, or his sister’s lectures on nauseating sea monster facts.

From "The Mark of Athena" by Rick Riordan