Co-starring or co-staring – which is correct? This is a common question that arises when people encounter these two forms in written or spoken English. While both versions seem plausible, the correct term to use is “co-starring”. Let’s dive into the reasons why “co-starring” is the preferred and accepted form.
First and foremost, it is essential to establish what the term “co-starring” means. When we talk about co-starring, we usually refer to actors or actresses sharing the spotlight or having equal importance in a play, movie, or TV show. Essentially, it signifies a collaboration between actors in a production. Using “co-starring” helps to communicate this meaning clearly.
The term “co-starring” is formed by combining the prefix “co-” and the verb “star”. The prefix “co-” means “with” or “together,” indicating a joint effort or partnership. By blending it with “star,” we create a new word that reflects the concept of actors sharing the spotlight equally. It captures the essence of their collaboration and acknowledges their shared prominence.
To further understand why “co-starring” is the correct form, let’s examine a few examples where it is more commonly used:
1. “Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie co-starred in the movie ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’.”
Here, the term “co-starred” highlights the equal importance of both actors, emphasizing their shared role and spotlight in the film.
2. “The sitcom ‘Friends’ featured an ensemble cast, with Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer co-starring as the main characters.”
The phrase “co-starring as the main characters” emphasizes the equal significance of all six actors, indicating their joint leading roles and collective importance in the sitcom.
On the other hand, “co-staring” is an incorrect form of the term. While it might sound plausible due to its resemblance to other verb forms (like “starring” or “stared”), it lacks the necessary structure and meaning. Additionally, “co-staring” does not align with the established grammatical conventions.
Using “co-starring” ensures consistency with other similar words in the English language. For instance, we use “co-author” to describe authors who have jointly written a book, “co-pilot” for pilots who share flying responsibilities, and “co-director” for two or more individuals who co-manage a project or a film. The prefix “co-” consistently indicates a shared role or partnership in such cases, which aligns with “co-starring” as the correct term.
In conclusion, the correct and widely accepted term is “co-starring”. This word combines the prefix “co-” with the verb “star” to convey the idea of actors sharing the spotlight equally. By using “co-starring,” we demonstrate a clear understanding of its meaning and adhere to established grammatical conventions. So, next time you describe actors collaborating in a production, remember to use “co-starring” to accurately represent their joint prominence and contribution.