Diegetic sound

Sound belonging to the world of the story, such as characters’ speech or footsteps.

Sound whose source belongs within the world shown by a media product, such as characters’ dialogue or music playing on their radio.

Diegetic sound belongs within the world being shown: characters talking, footsteps, weather or music playing on a radio. Non-diegetic sound comes from outside that world, such as background music added for the audience. Music can be either type, depending on its source.

For the 2025 sound question, analyse both diegetic and non-diegetic sound. Answers addressing only one could not receive more than 6 out of 8.

Sound belonging to the story world, such as dialogue, footsteps or a gate creaking.

Sound whose source belongs within the story world, such as dialogue, footsteps or a car engine.

Sound belonging to the story world, such as dialogue, sirens or an explosion.

Diegetic sound belongs to the story world. Police sirens, detonations and dialogue make the emergency feel immediate. Technical jargon suggests that the characters belong to a specialist profession, helping construct realism even when viewers do not understand every term.

Sound that belongs within the story world, such as dialogue that characters can hear.

Sound belonging to the world of the story, such as characters’ speech or a clock they could hear.

Sound originating within the world shown on screen, such as the audible cheering of students.

Definition

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AQA GCSE Media Studies · 8572

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Eduqas GCSE Media Studies · C680