Exposition: meaning, definitions and examples

🎨
Add to dictionary

exposition

 

[ˌɛkspəˈzɪʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

art

A comprehensive description and explanation of an idea or theory.

Synonyms

elaboration, explanation, interpretation.

Examples of usage

  • The artist's exposition of his latest masterpiece was met with critical acclaim.
  • The professor's exposition of the new scientific theory was groundbreaking.
Context #2 | Noun

literature

The beginning part of a story where the characters, setting, and main conflict are introduced.

Synonyms

introduction, prelude, prologue.

Examples of usage

  • The exposition of the novel set the stage for the thrilling plot that followed.
  • In the exposition of the play, the audience was introduced to the main characters.
Context #3 | Noun

event

A large public display of art, products, or skills.

Synonyms

exhibition, fair, showcase.

Examples of usage

  • The annual exposition featured works of art from around the world.
  • The technology exposition showcased the latest innovations in the industry.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'exponere', meaning 'to put forth', which reflects its purpose of presenting information.
  • In the 16th century, 'exposition' started being used in English to describe the act of explaining things in writing or speeches.

Literature

  • In storytelling, exposition is often found at the beginning, laying the groundwork for characters and settings.
  • Classic narratives like 'Romeo and Juliet' start with exposition that introduces important themes of love and conflict.

Theater and Film

  • In plays and movies, exposition can be delivered through dialogue or visuals, helping the audience grasp the storyline quickly.
  • Directors often use techniques like flashbacks or character conversations to provide necessary exposition without slowing down the action.

Education

  • Exposition is key in teaching, as it helps teachers present new concepts clearly to students for better understanding.
  • Textbooks often use expository writing to explain complex ideas in a straightforward manner, facilitating learning.

Pop Culture

  • Many popular TV shows, like 'Game of Thrones', use exposition in the opening scenes to introduce the viewers to the fantasy world and key players.
  • Comic books often use text boxes for exposition so readers can catch up on backstory while enjoying the visuals.

Translations

Translations of the word "exposition" in other languages:

🇵🇹 exposição

🇮🇳 प्रदर्शनी

🇩🇪 Ausstellung

🇮🇩 pameran

🇺🇦 експозиція

🇵🇱 ekspozycja

🇯🇵 展示 (てんじ)

🇫🇷 exposition

🇪🇸 exposición

🇹🇷 sergi

🇰🇷 전시 (展示)

🇸🇦 معرض

🇨🇿 výstava

🇸🇰 výstava

🇨🇳 展览 (zhǎnlǎn)

🇸🇮 razstava

🇮🇸 sýning

🇰🇿 көрме

🇬🇪 გამოფენა

🇦🇿 sərgi

🇲🇽 exposición

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,297 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.