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Expository Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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expository

[ษชkหˆspษ‘หzษ™tษ”หri ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

writing style

Intended to explain or describe something in a clear and straightforward manner. Expository writing is often found in essays, articles, and textbooks.

Synonyms

descriptive, explanatory, informative.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
expository

Primarily used in academic or formal writing to describe texts or passages that aim to explain or set forth ideas in a clear, straightforward manner.

  • The professor assigned an expository essay to explain the key concepts of the theory.
  • Expository writing is essential for clear communication in scientific research papers.
explanatory

Commonly used when clarifying or making something understandable, often seen in manuals, instructions, and guides.

  • He provided an explanatory note to make the complex diagram easier to understand.
  • The teacher gave an explanatory lecture on how to solve algebraic equations.
informative

Often used for content intended to provide useful information, data, or knowledge, typically seen in articles, tutorials, and reports.

  • The documentary was very informative, providing a wealth of knowledge about wildlife conservation.
  • She wrote an informative blog post about the benefits of renewable energy.
descriptive

Used when detailing or creating a vivid picture of a person, place, thing, or event to help the reader visualize the subject.

  • Her descriptive narrative painted a beautiful picture of the autumn landscape.
  • A good descriptive paragraph will make readers feel like they are experiencing the scene firsthand.

Examples of usage

  • The expository essay provided a detailed explanation of the topic.
  • The textbook used expository language to describe the scientific concepts.
Context #2 | Noun

education

A type of writing that is used to inform, explain, or describe a particular topic. Expository writing is commonly taught in schools as a way to develop critical thinking and communication skills.

Synonyms

description, explanation, exposition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
expository

Best used in academic or formal settings where the goal is to provide a thorough explanation or analysis of a subject.

  • The professor gave an expository lecture on the principles of physics.
  • Her expository essay detailed the effects of climate change.
exposition

Often used in more formal contexts such as literature, theater, or academia to describe the act of setting forth information, background, or context.

  • The movie's exposition set the stage for the complex plot.
  • In the exposition of his speech, he detailed his early life and education.
explanation

Commonly used when the aim is to make something clear or understandable, often in response to a question or confusion.

  • He gave a clear explanation of how the software works.
  • Can you offer an explanation for your absence?
description

Typically used in both casual and formal contexts to give details about the characteristics or features of something or someone.

  • She provided a vivid description of the sunset.
  • The job description lists all required qualifications.

Examples of usage

  • The students practiced expository writing to improve their analytical abilities.
  • The teacher assigned an expository essay on the history of ancient civilizations.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Education

  • Expository writing is often used in academic settings, such as essays and reports, to convey factual information.
  • It is one of the four main types of writing, alongside narrative, persuasive, and descriptive writing.

Literature

  • Many non-fiction books, such as textbooks and guides, rely heavily on expository writing to present their content clearly.
  • This style is often found in literature, especially in essays where the author's main goal is to explain a concept or idea.

Media

  • Expository elements are often present in journalism, where reporters aim to explain news events in a straightforward manner.
  • Documentaries frequently utilize expository writing to inform viewers about various topics, sharing facts and analyses.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that clear expository writing can enhance understanding and retention of information in learners.
  • Cognitive load theory emphasizes the importance of simplistically organized information, akin to expository writing, for better learning.

Origin of 'expository'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'expositus', which means 'to place forth' or 'to explain'.
  • It was first recorded in English in the late 19th century, growing from an existing need for clear communication in writing.

The word 'expository' originates from the Latin word 'expositus,' which means 'set forth.' The term has been used in English since the 17th century to refer to writing that aims to explain or describe a subject clearly. Over time, expository writing has become an essential part of education, helping students develop their writing and analytical skills.

See also: exposable, exposed, exposing, exposure, exposures.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,986, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.