Prelude: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this when referring to something that comes before and prepares the way for the main part of something larger, often in music or literature.

• The short story served as a prelude to the novel
• The symphony opened with a beautiful prelude

This is best for when you begin a book, speech, or other piece of writing by giving an overview or explanation ahead of the main content. It can also be used in social settings to present someone to others.

• The introduction of the book provided important context for the history that followed
• During the meeting, Mary gave an introduction for the guest speaker

Typically used in the context of music, primarily classical, to describe the instrumental music played at the beginning of an opera or a long musical work. It can also mean an initial offer or approach in negotiations.

• The orchestra played the overture before the main act of the opera
• The company made an overture to buy its competitor

Usually found in literature and drama, referring to a section that precedes the main story, often setting the scene or providing background information.

• The Shakespearean play began with a prologue recited by a single character
• The novel's prologue explained the historical context of the story

Typically used to describe an action or event that precedes and introduces something more significant. Often used in the context of music or events.

• The prelude to the ceremony was a beautiful instrumental piece
• The speech served as a prelude to the main event

Used to describe an introductory section written by the author themselves, providing context, background, or explanations about the book.

• In the preface, the author explains the inspiration behind the novel
• The preface offers insights into the themes explored in the chapters

This word is commonly used to denote a short introductory section written by someone other than the author, usually found in non-fiction books.

• In the foreword, the editor provides insight into the author's motivations
• The foreword by a prominent scholar adds credibility to the research

Generally used in literary works to describe an introductory section that sets the scene for the story, often providing background information or context.

• The prologue of the book gives a glimpse into the protagonist's childhood
• The play's prologue introduces the main conflict of the story

Used to describe an introductory event or action preceding a more significant one, often in the context of arts, music, or important events.

• The overture served as a prelude to the evening's performance.
• The sudden drop in temperature was a prelude to the harsh winter that followed.

Used to describe something that existed before and influenced the formation of a later development, often in scientific or technological contexts.

• The ancient abacus was a precursor to modern computing devices.
• Studies on gravitational theory served as a precursor to Einstein's theory of relativity.

Often used in a more poetic or literary context to indicate a person or thing that announces the approach of another, typically something negative or momentous.

• The dark clouds were a harbinger of the approaching storm.
• The economic downturn was seen as a harbinger of harder times ahead.

Used to describe something or someone that comes before another, often indicating the arrival of a new development or trend.

• The early engine models were the forerunners of today's modern cars.
• The invention of the telegraph was a forerunner to modern communication technologies.