Trope: meaning, definitions and examples
๐
trope
[ troสp ]
literature
A trope is a commonly used theme or motif in literature, art, or media that conveys a specific idea or message. Tropes can be recurring patterns, symbols, or clichรฉs that help to convey meaning or create a certain atmosphere.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| trope |
Used to describe a common or recurring element in storytelling, often with a slightly negative connotation as something overused or predictable.
|
| theme |
Indicates the central topic, subject, or message that is explored in a piece of literature, art, or media.
|
| motif |
Describes a recurrent thematic element, symbol, or idea in a work of art that holds symbolic significance and contributes to the development of the theme.
|
| clichรฉ |
Refers to an idea, expression, or element that has been overused to the point of losing its original meaning or effect, often viewed negatively.
|
Examples of usage
- Using the 'damsel in distress' trope in the story added suspense.
- The 'hero's journey' is a well-known trope in literature and film.
linguistics
In linguistics, a trope refers to a figure of speech that involves a change in the traditional meaning of words or phrases. Tropes are often used to create emphasis, convey emotion, or add depth to language.
Synonyms
figure of speech, metaphor, simile.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| trope |
A general term used in literature or rhetoric to describe a common or overused theme, motif, or device. Often has a slightly negative connotation if overused.
|
| figure of speech |
An expression that uses language in a non-literal way to achieve a rhetorical effect. Frequently used in both everyday language and literary works to add emphasis or creativity.
|
| metaphor |
A specific type of figure of speech where a word or phrase is applied to an object or action that is not literally applicable, suggesting a similarity. It is used to add depth and understanding by drawing comparisons.
|
| simile |
A type of figure of speech that directly compares two different things using the words 'like' or 'as'. It makes descriptions more vivid.
|
Examples of usage
- The use of metaphors and similes are common tropes in poetry.
- Irony and hyperbole are examples of tropes used in everyday language.
Translations
Translations of the word "trope" in other languages:
๐ต๐น trope
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคฆเคฐเฅเคถ
๐ฉ๐ช Trope
๐ฎ๐ฉ kiasan
๐บ๐ฆ ััะพะฟ
๐ต๐ฑ trop
๐ฏ๐ต ใใญใผใ
๐ซ๐ท trop
๐ช๐ธ tropo
๐น๐ท trope
๐ฐ๐ท ํธ๋กํ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุงุณุชุนุงุฑุฉ
๐จ๐ฟ trop
๐ธ๐ฐ trop
๐จ๐ณ ไฟฎ่พ
๐ธ๐ฎ trope
๐ฎ๐ธ trope
๐ฐ๐ฟ ััะพะฟ
๐ฌ๐ช แขแ แแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ trop
๐ฒ๐ฝ tropo
Etymology
The word 'trope' originates from the Greek word 'tropos' meaning 'a turn.' It was first used in the English language in the 16th century to refer to a figure of speech. Over time, the term expanded to encompass broader themes and motifs in literature and media, reflecting the evolution of storytelling and artistic expression.