C1Film
Oppenheimer
2023 · Christopher Nolan
12 key words from Oppenheimer — learn them before you watch for a much richer experience.
Word
Meaning
Example
physicistn
a scientist who studies matter, energy and the laws of nature
Oppenheimer is the leading theoretical physicist of his generation.
fissionn
splitting an atom to release a massive amount of energy
Nuclear fission is the scientific principle behind the bomb.
classifiedadj
officially designated as secret by the government
All information about the Manhattan Project was classified.
testimonyn
a formal statement given under oath in a hearing or trial
Oppenheimer's testimony during the security hearing is pivotal.
moral dilemman
a situation where every possible choice has ethical consequences
Building the bomb creates an impossible moral dilemma.
legacyn
something left behind for future generations to remember
Oppenheimer's legacy is both brilliant and deeply troubling.
paranoian
an irrational and persistent fear of being harmed
McCarthyism created widespread paranoia about communism.
devastationn
great destruction, damage and emotional suffering
Oppenheimer is haunted by the devastation the bomb caused.
theoreticaladj
based on ideas and principles rather than practical application
His theoretical work laid the foundation for nuclear physics.
reckoningn
a moment when past actions are judged or punished
The hearing is Oppenheimer's professional and moral reckoning.
contradictv
to say or do the opposite of what was previously stated
Witnesses contradict each other throughout the hearing.
allegiancen
loyalty to a person, country or cause
His alleged political allegiances become the core accusation.
12 words · C1 · Film
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Study tip
The film switches between colour (subjective) and black-and-white (objective) sequences. Listen for shifts in register — courtroom vs. academic vs. political speech.
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