Scene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽฌ
Add to dictionary

scene

[siหn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a play

A sequence of continuous action in a play, movie, opera, or book.

Synonyms

act, segment, sequence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
scene

This word is commonly used in literature, theater, and film to describe a specific place and time in a story where actions and events happen. It often involves a change in location or a distinct section of the plot.

  • The climax of the movie took place in an intense battle scene.
  • In the opening scene, you see the protagonist walking through a deserted street.
sequence

A sequence refers to a series of related events, actions, or scenes that follow each other in a specific order. In film and literature, it often contributes to a larger narrative or thematic development.

  • The car chase sequence in the movie was incredibly thrilling.
  • The opening sequence of the book sets the tone for the entire story.
act

An act is a major division within a play or a performance. It usually consists of a group of scenes that form a significant portion of the story, often separated by an intermission.

  • The play is divided into three acts, each representing a different phase of the protagonist's life.
  • In Shakespeare's time, most plays had five acts.
segment

Segment is a more general term used to describe any distinct part or section of something, whether itโ€™s a story, a show, or a dataset. It is broader and less specific than 'scene' or 'act' and is not confined to literature or performance arts.

  • The news program was divided into several segments, each focusing on different topics.
  • That segment of the documentary was particularly moving.

Examples of usage

  • The final scene of the movie was very emotional.
  • She performed brilliantly in the opening scene of the play.
Context #2 | Noun

crime

The place where a real or fictional crime or other significant event occurred.

Synonyms

location, site, spot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
scene

Use 'scene' when referring to a specific place where an event occurs, often in a dramatic or story-telling context. This word has a connotation of drama or a specific event happening there.

  • The robbery took place at the scene of the crime
  • The director set up the scene for the final showdown
location

'Location' is appropriate when talking about a particular place or position, often used in a general or business context.

  • The business is looking for a new office location
  • This location is ideal for our picnic
site

Use 'site' when discussing a place where something is or will be happening, often related to construction, archaeological digs, or official events.

  • The construction site is noisy
  • This is an important archaeological site
spot

Choose 'spot' when referring to a specific, often small area or place, usually informal. It can also imply a favorite or particular place someone likes.

  • We found a nice spot for fishing
  • That spot under the tree is perfect for reading

Examples of usage

  • The police arrived at the crime scene to gather evidence.
  • The scene of the accident was blocked off by authorities.
Context #3 | Noun

a view

A view or landscape as seen from a particular point.

Synonyms

landscape, panorama, view.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
scene

Refers to a specific part of a larger environment, often used in descriptions of movies, plays, or specific events.

  • The final scene of the movie was very emotional.
  • She quickly captured the scene in her painting.
landscape

Describes a broad, extensive view of natural scenery, typically used in the context of art, nature, or geography.

  • The rolling hills and green fields make for a beautiful landscape.
  • He specializes in landscape photography.
view

A more general term for what can be seen from a particular place, can be used in both natural and urban contexts.

  • We had a great view of the sunset from our hotel room.
  • The view from the balcony was breathtaking.
panorama

Describes a wide, unbroken view of a surrounding area, often used to emphasize the breadth and completeness of a view.

  • From the top of the hill, we could see a stunning panorama of the entire city.
  • The brochure included a panorama of the mountain range.

Examples of usage

  • The picturesque scene of the mountains took my breath away.
  • The scene from the top of the hill was stunning.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Film and Theatre

  • Scenes are crucial in film and theater; they break up the story into manageable parts, making it easier to follow.
  • Directors often select specific lighting, sound, and angles to create the perfect scene and evoke emotions.
  • Famous movie scenes, like the 'Iโ€™m going to make him an offer he can't refuse' from 'The Godfather', are often quoted for their impact.

Literature

  • In novels, a scene conveys action and dialogue, moving the plot forward and helping deepen characters.
  • Classic literature often uses vivid scenes to paint images in the reader's mind, like in 'A Tale of Two Cities'.
  • Scenes in literature can focus on settings, emotions, or conflicts, helping to engage readers more deeply.

Art

  • Artists often capture scenes from daily life, using their canvas to convey emotions and narratives.
  • Impressionism focused on capturing fleeting scenes of everyday life, emphasizing light and color.
  • Famous paintings like 'The Fighting Temeraire' depict historical scenes with powerful imagery and storytelling.

Origin of 'scene'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has roots in Middle English, derived from 'sene', which comes from the Latin 'scena', meaning a stage.
  • In ancient Greece, scenes referred to the areas in front of the stage where actors performed.
  • The transition of the word into English reflected the importance of visual storytelling in theatre.

The word 'scene' originated from the Latin word 'scena', which referred to a stage or platform. In early use, it was specifically used in the context of a stage setting in a play. Over time, the meaning expanded to include various contexts such as crime scenes, picturesque views, and sequences of action in movies or books. The word has been widely used in literature, theater, and film, becoming a versatile term with multiple meanings.


See also: scenery, scenes, scenic.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,661, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.