remake

Meanings

1. 1verbtransitive

   To create a new version of an existing film, song, game, show, or similar work.

   Grammar: Takes an object: remake the film. It does not mean simply repair something.

   Patterns

   • remake something
   • remake something as something
   • be remade from something

   The studio plans to remake the classic thriller for a younger audience.

   Fans argued that no one should remake such a beloved film.

   The song was remade with a faster rhythm and new lyrics.

2. 2nouncountable

   A new version of an existing creative work, especially a movie.

   Grammar: Countable: a remake of an old movie. As a noun, stress often falls on the first syllable.

   Patterns

   • a remake of something
   • the remake of something
   • compare something with the remake

   The remake kept the plot but changed the ending.

   Critics said the remake lacked the charm of the original.

Word forms

Common combinations

remake a classic

They decided to remake a classic rather than create a new story.

closely follow the original

The remake closely follows the original scene for scene.

poorly received remake

The poorly received remake disappeared from cinemas within a week.

shot-for-shot remake

A shot-for-shot remake copies the camera work of the earlier film.

Synonyms and how they differ

reboot

Used mainly for series or franchises when continuity is restarted, not for one faithful new version.

cover

Used for a new performance of a song, whereas remake can refer to films and games too.

update

Suggests modernizing parts of something, not necessarily producing a whole new version.

revamp

Emphasizes improving or restyling something and is broader than creative works.

Opposites

Word family

remaking noun

The act or process of making a new version.

Commonly confused: remake or repair?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “remake”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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