Thriller: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'thriller' when referring to a genre of book or movie that is meant to excite, intrigue, and keep the audience on the edge of their seats. Thrillers often involve crime, danger, and mystery.

• I couldn't put down that thriller; it was so gripping!
• The new thriller movie kept me guessing until the very end.

Use 'suspense' to describe a feeling of anticipation or worry about what will happen next, commonly found in stories or situations that create tension and uncertainty.

• The suspense in the final moments of the game was almost unbearable.
• Her novel is full of suspense; it kept me on the edge of my seat.

Use 'excitement' when referring to a feeling of enthusiasm, eagerness, or intense interest. It is often used to describe someone's personal emotions about an upcoming event or experience.

• The excitement in the room was palpable as we waited for the results.
• Kids feel a lot of excitement before their birthday parties.

Use 'drama' when talking about a genre focused on serious, emotional, or conflict-filled narratives. This word can also describe real-life situations that involve emotional or intense interactions.

• She enjoys watching drama series because of the complex characters.
• There was a lot of drama at work today because of the unexpected changes.

Use when talking about a general, exciting and fast-paced book or movie that creates a lot of tension and excitement.

• 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' is a great thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat
• 'Jurassic Park' is an action-packed thriller

Used when highlighting a book that builds up a lot of suspense, making readers anxious about what will happen next.

• 'The Silence of the Lambs' is a suspenseful novel that keeps readers hooked from start to finish
• 'Gone Girl' is not just a thriller, but also a deeply suspenseful novel

Ideal for discussions around books that revolve around solving a mystery, often featuring a detective or an amateur sleuth.

• 'Sherlock Holmes' stories are some of the most famous mystery books ever written
• 'The Da Vinci Code' is a popular mystery book that captivates readers

Best used when referring to a book, movie, or TV show that involves crimes, often centered around detectives, criminals, law enforcement, and a lot of suspense.

• 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn is an amazing crime thriller with many twists
• 'Se7en' is a classic crime thriller movie