Episodical Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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episodical

[ˌɛpɪˈsɒdɪk(ə)l ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in storytelling

Related to or consisting of separate episodes or parts, especially a series of connected events.

Synonyms

disconnected, episodic, fragmented.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
episodical	Used to describe something that occurs occasionally or at intervals, often in a casual or irregular manner. Her interest in painting was episodical; she would pick it up for a few weeks and then abandon it for months.
episodic	Often used to describe events or a narrative that is divided into separate and distinct episodes or parts. The novel had an episodic structure, with each chapter telling a different part of the protagonist's life. Chronic diseases can sometimes have an episodic nature, with periods of flare-ups and remission.
fragmented	Describes something that is broken into pieces or lacks coherence, often carries a negative connotation. The company's fragmented approach to marketing led to inconsistent messages being sent to customers. After the breakup, his thoughts were fragmented and he had a hard time focusing.
disconnected	Typically refers to something that lacks a logical connection or continuity, can refer to both physical and abstract concepts. Often has a negative connotation. The conversation felt disconnected, jumping from one topic to another without any smooth transitions. After the storm, many of the utility lines were disconnected.

Examples of usage

Her novel is episodical, with each chapter focusing on a different character.
The TV show has an episodical structure, with each episode telling a self-contained story.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

Many classic novels, such as 'The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes,' are episodical, presenting distinct cases in each chapter.
The episodical format allows authors to explore different themes or characters without needing a linear structure.
Anthologies and short story collections often utilize this style, creating a diverse reading experience.

Television

Episodical storytelling revolutionized television, allowing series to develop characters and plots over multiple episodes.
In contrast to episodic formats, serialized shows will have a continuing storyline that spans an entire season.
Popular shows like 'Friends' and 'Grey's Anatomy' exemplify episodical narratives, where each episode stands alone but contributes to overall character arcs.

Psychology

Research shows that episodical storytelling can enhance memory retention, as people remember events more clearly when they are framed as stories.
Episodical recall is a significant aspect of human memory, allowing us to remember personal experiences as distinct events in time.
This narrative structure aligns with how humans naturally process information, making it easier to comprehend and relate.

Cultural Impact

Episodical formats in media encourage communal conversation, as audiences discuss each episode, contributing to a shared cultural experience.
The rise of streaming platforms has shifted the episodical model, with binge-watching altering the way stories are consumed.
Global hits like 'Game of Thrones' and 'Stranger Things' demonstrate the power of episodical storytelling in shaping popular culture today.

Origin of 'episodical'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Greek 'episodion', meaning 'a song or story added to' a larger work.
Initially used in literature to describe parts added to a poem or a play, it has evolved to refer more generally to any series of events.
The transition into modern English usage began in the 17th century, linked closely with serialized storytelling.

The word 'episodical' is derived from the noun 'episode', which comes from the Greek word 'episodion', meaning 'an incident or event'. The use of 'episodical' to describe something consisting of separate episodes or parts dates back to the 18th century.