Framing: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when discussing the creation of a border or structure that encases something, or when outlining an approach or context for a situation or argument.

• The curator spent hours framing the paintings.
• He was skilled at framing complex debates in simple terms.

Typically refers to expressing or developing ideas, plans, or theories in a systematic manner. It is often used in research, science, and policy development.

• The formulation of the new policy took several months.
• Chemists are working on the formulation of a new drug.

Often used when talking about creating or planning the look and function of objects, structures, or systems, from an artistic or functional perspective.

• She is designing a new logo for the company.
• They are designing the layout of the new office space.

Used to describe the organization or arrangement of parts in a specific order or pattern, often for clarity or function. It is common in both physical and conceptual contexts.

• She is structuring her essay to ensure it flows logically.
• The company is restructuring its management team.

Used when discussing the way something is presented or the perspective from which it is viewed, often with a specific angle or bias. This term is commonly used in media, photography, and storytelling.

• The framing of the news article made the event seem much more dramatic than it was.
• In the painting, the framing directs the viewer’s attention to the central figure.

Refers to the way parts are put together to form a whole, often used in artistic, musical, or academic contexts. It emphasizes the overall structure and balance.

• The composition of the photograph was carefully planned.
• Her latest composition for the piano received rave reviews.

Used when talking about the organization or order of elements in a particular system or space. This word is often used in relation to physical items, music, or plans.

• The floral arrangement on the table was stunning.
• She was in charge of the seating arrangement for the banquet.

Used when discussing the display or explanation of a topic to an audience, often in meetings, lectures, or formal settings. It focuses on the delivery and visual aspects.

• His presentation on climate change was very informative.
• The chef's presentation of the dish made it look very appetizing.

Used when someone manipulates a situation to make it look like someone else committed a wrongdoing or crime.

• He was innocent, but they did a good job of framing him for the theft.
• She had no idea she was being framed until the evidence was laid in front of her.

Used in an informal context to imply that someone is being tricked or manipulated into a situation where they appear guilty or responsible for something they didn't do. Often has a conspiratorial feeling.

• It was all a set-up; they wanted to see him fail.
• She realized too late that it was a set-up to get her fired.

Used when someone creates false information or lies, typically to deceive others. This can be used in a neutral context or to describe negative actions.

• They fabricated a story to cover their absence at the meeting.
• The evidence was fabricated to mislead the investigators.

Used when someone or something is made to appear guilty of a crime or wrongdoing. This word carries a legal connotation.

• The new evidence tended to incriminate her in the embezzlement case.
• He refused to answer questions that might incriminate him.