Language Research

scene · noun

/siːn/Full view

scene (FILM/BOOK, ETC.)

B1 C a short part of a film, play, or book in which the events happen in one place

Dictionary examples:

the party/wedding scene

The opening scene of the movie was filmed in Montreal.

Learner example:

If you haven't seen any of th[ese] three "Star Wars" movies, I suggest you do see them tonight or tomorrow. They are great, with [a] lot of action scenes. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Greek)

scene (VIEW)

B2 C a view or picture of a place, event, or activity

Dictionary examples:

Lowry painted street scenes.

scenes of everyday life

There were scenes of great joy as the students were reunited with their families.

Learner example:

I like especially the scene of the garden with snow in winter. (First Certificate in English; B2; Japanese)

scene (PLACE)

B2 C usually no plural a place where an unpleasant event has happened

Dictionary examples:

He was convicted of leaving the scene of an accident.

Dozens of firefighters quickly arrived on the scene.

Evidence was found at the scene of the crime.

Learner example:

She managed to recreate the scene of the crime, saying that she had swallowed a fish bone. (First Certificate in English; B2; Portuguese)

the fashion/music/club, etc. scene

B2 all the things connected with a particular way of life or activity

Dictionary example:

She's well known on the jazz scene.

Learner example:

Great Britain has his own comic scene and it would be a good idea to meet them and talk with them about all their comics and they could write me and other German collectors. (First Certificate in English; B2; Dutch)

scene (ARGUMENT)

C2 C when people have a loud argument or show strong emotions in a public place

Dictionary example:

She made a scene when I told her she couldn't come with us.

Learner example:

She didn't cry, she didn't scream, she didn't make a scene. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Spanish)

behind the scenes

C2 If something happens behind the scenes, it happens secretly.

Dictionary example:

A lot of hard work has been going on behind the scenes.

Learner example:

Ms. Bolam knew a lot of things going on behind the scenes, [which were] not [known to] the patients. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; German)