Anticlimax Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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anticlimax
[หan.tiหklaษช.mรฆks ]
Definition
in literature
An anticlimax is a disappointing end to an exciting or impressive series of events. It is a sudden change from something serious or exciting to something that is silly or unimportant.
Synonyms
disappointment, fizzle, letdown.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| anticlimax |
A situation in which something that is much less exciting or important happens after something that was expected to be exciting or important. Often used in storytelling, presentations, or events.
|
| disappointment |
A feeling of sadness or displeasure caused by the non-fulfillment of one's hopes or expectations. Can be used in both personal and professional contexts.
|
| letdown |
A situation where someone or something is not as good as expected, causing disappointment. Can be used in social, professional, or entertainment contexts.
|
| fizzle |
When something, such as a plan or project, gradually fails or becomes less successful. Often used informally to describe a slow decline or failure.
|
Examples of usage
- The movie built up so much tension, but the ending was a complete anticlimax.
- After the intense battle scene, the anticlimax came when the main character slipped on a banana peel.
- The anticlimax of the concert left the audience feeling unsatisfied.
- The anticlimax in the last chapter of the book took away from the overall impact of the story.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'anticlimax'
The term 'anticlimax' originated in the 18th century from the Greek words 'anti' (against) and 'klimax' (ladder). It was originally used in a strictly rhetorical sense to refer to a figure of speech in which a series of ideas is arranged in descending order of importance. Over time, the meaning evolved to its current usage, describing a sudden disappointing end to a sequence of events.