EnglishClub ESL Forums

1. I'm going to see a movie.(at a theatre)

2. I'm going to watch a movie. (at a theatre)

Which is the correct sentence with regard to 'see' and 'watch'?

Thanks.

Both are correct and widely in use.

In general I'd agree with TheStephen. The only thing I'd add is that "watch" is rather more active than "see". When you watch something you make a conscious effort to see it. (Like the difference between "listen" and "hear".)

In general, we see a performance in public and watch a performance on TV. So for example:
- We're going to see a movie at the cinema tonight.
- We're going to watch a movie on TV tonight.

Here is a page about Watch versus See versus Look.

Thanks, Josef and Stephen.