Dramatic: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something striking or impressive in appearance or effect. Often appears in art, literature, and real-life scenarios where something extraordinary happens.

• The play had a dramatic ending that left the audience speechless.
• Her new haircut brought about a dramatic change in her appearance.

Used to refer to behavior or events that are exaggerated and dramatic, similar to acting in a theater. Can have a negative connotation if used to describe someone's behavior as overly dramatic or unnatural.

• His theatrical gestures made everyone laugh.
• The protest had a theatrical flair with people wearing costumes and shouting slogans.

Pertains to strong feelings, whether positive or negative. It's often used in contexts involving human relationships, reactions, and experiences where feelings are deeply involved.

• The movie was so emotional that it brought tears to my eyes.
• He gave an emotional speech at the retirement party.

Describes something that is extreme in degree, strength, or force. Often used in contexts involving effort, competition, or emotional experiences.

• The competition for the championship was intense.
• She felt an intense connection with the place.

Used to describe something that is exciting or emotional. Often related to a sudden change or turn of events. Can also refer to exaggerated behavior or situations.

• The landscape was dramatic with its towering cliffs and roaring ocean.
• His reaction to the news was overly dramatic, causing everyone to feel uncomfortable.

Used to describe something that pertains to theater or acting. It can also describe exaggerated or overly emotional behavior, often with a negative connotation.

• Her theatrical gestures drew attention during the meeting.
• They attended a theatrical performance at the local theater.

A less common, somewhat old-fashioned term used to describe something related to theater. Can sometimes imply a sense of artificiality or pretentiousness.

• The actor's theatric flair made the performance unforgettable.

Refers specifically to the practice or study of acting, theater performance, and related arts. It is often used in academic or artistic discussions.

• She has a degree in dramatic art and has performed in numerous theater productions.
• The course on dramatic art will cover both classical and contemporary plays.

Appropriate for describing something that is striking, intense, or emotional. It can also refer to an over-the-top reaction.

• The sunset looked dramatic against the dark clouds.
• His reaction to the news was quite dramatic.

Similar to 'theatric,' this word describes something related to theater. It also means exaggerated or overly dramatic behavior, actions or settings; it can have a negative connotation if describing someone's actions as attention-seeking.

• Her theatrical makeup was perfect for the role.
• He made a theatrical entrance that everyone noticed.

Used when referencing something related to literature or characteristic of written works. It often implies sophistication or higher cultural value.

• The novel was praised for its literary quality.
• She has a very literary style in her essays.

Applied when describing something related to theater or performance, often used to describe a dramatic or exaggerated behavior.

• His theatric gestures caught everyone's attention.
• The actor's theatric performance won him an award.