1. Why don't we go to a movie?

(In this sentence, does 'movie' mean 'movie theater' or 'motion picture'?

2. Why don't we go to the movies?
(In this sentence, does 'movies' mean 'movie theaters' or 'motion pictures'?)

#1 would be clearer if you wrote "Why don't we go see a movie?" (meaning a particular motion picture, film, or movie)

#2 could mean either to the theater or to see motion pictures, probably whatever's showing!

1. In this sentence, the word "movie" can refer to either "movie theater" or "motion picture" depending on the context. Without any additional context, it could be interpreted as either. To determine the intended meaning, you may need to consider the overall context of the conversation or ask for clarification from the speaker.

2. In this sentence, the word "movies" generally refers to "movie theaters" rather than "motion pictures." When someone suggests going to the movies, they usually mean going to a cinema or theater to watch a film. However, it is important to note that depending on the context, "movies" can also refer to the collective term for motion pictures in general. Again, understanding the context of the conversation is crucial in interpreting the intended meaning of the word.