Jump cut is a cut in film editing where two sequential shots of the same subject are taken from camera positions that vary only slightly, giving the effect of jumping forwards in time.

• A. A cut in which two sequential shots of different subjects are used.
• B. A technique that gradually dissolves between shots.
• C. Jump cut is a cut in film editing where two sequential shots of the same subject are taken from camera positions that vary only slightly, creating a jump forward in time.
• D. A long take with no cuts.

Answer: (C)

Jump cuts rely on keeping the same subject in both shots, but shifting the camera position only slightly so the edit feels abrupt. That small change signals to the audience that time has moved forward, even though the subject remains recognizable. This creates a noticeable jump in time within a single scene, emphasizing rhythm and pace rather than a smooth, continuous flow.

This approach is different from cutting to a different subject, which changes who you’re watching instead of when you’re watching. It also isn’t a dissolve, which blends images to smooth the passage of time, nor is it a long take, which preserves continuous action with no cuts. The definition here matches the distinctive effect of a jump cut: same subject, minimal camera shifts, and a clear jump forward in time.