Trope: meaning, definitions and examples

📖

Add to dictionary

trope

[troʊp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

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 clichés that help to convey meaning or create a certain atmosphere.

Synonyms

cliché, motif, theme.

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. The story leans heavily on the 'reluctant hero' trope. Using the 'love triangle' trope can sometimes make the plot feel unoriginal.
theme	Indicates the central topic, subject, or message that is explored in a piece of literature, art, or media. The theme of the novel revolves around the idea of redemption. One of the major themes in the book is the conflict between tradition and progress.
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. The recurring motif of the green light in 'The Great Gatsby' symbolizes unattainable dreams. Water is a major motif in her paintings, representing change and fluidity.
cliché	Refers to an idea, expression, or element that has been overused to the point of losing its original meaning or effect, often viewed negatively. The phrase 'it was a dark and stormy night' is such a cliché. The movie's ending was disappointing because it relied on clichés.

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.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

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. The hero's journey is a common trope in storytelling Sci-fi movies are full of the 'dystopian future' trope
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. "Break a leg" is a figure of speech meaning good luck His explanation was clear as mud
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. Time is a thief He has a heart of stone
simile	A type of figure of speech that directly compares two different things using the words 'like' or 'as'. It makes descriptions more vivid. Her smile was as bright as the sun He fought like a lion

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'trope' comes from the Greek word 'tropos,' meaning 'a turn' or 'change,' which refers to different ways something can be represented.
In Latin, 'tropus' means ‘a turn’ as well, which reflects the change in meaning a word can take in different contexts.
The term has evolved over time, initially describing rhetorical devices before expanding to include literary and artistic themes.

Literature

Tropes can shape storytelling, such as the 'reluctant hero' or 'love triangle,' often providing a framework for narratives.
Many literary movements, like Romanticism or Modernism, embraced certain tropes to express various human experiences and emotions.
Meta-tropes, where tropes are self-referential, reflect a growing awareness in storytelling, allowing creators to comment on their own tropes.

Pop Culture

Popular films and shows often rely on tropes, allowing audiences to connect quickly with familiar situations, enhancing enjoyment and engagement.
In genres like horror, common tropes such as 'the final girl' or 'the creepy house' evoke specific fears and expectations.
The rise of internet culture has given birth to ‘Meme Tropes,’ where familiar themes or jokes are reused and remixed, leading to viral content.

Psychology

Humans are naturally drawn to familiar patterns in storytelling, as they help make sense of complex emotions and situations.
Recognition of tropes can create a sense of comfort for audiences, who feel they know what to expect in a story.
Understanding common tropes can also enhance critical thinking and media literacy, as it allows individuals to discern deeper meanings.

Film and Television

Directors and writers often subvert tropes to surprise viewers, creating more engaging and unpredictable narratives.
Trope analysis has become a popular activity among fans, allowing them to discuss how and why certain themes are employed.
Awards and achievements in film sometimes highlight those who successfully transform or challenge well-known tropes.

Translations

Translations of the word "trope" in other languages:

🇵🇹 trope

🇮🇳 आदर्श

🇩🇪 Trope

🇮🇩 kiasan

🇺🇦 троп

🇵🇱 trop

🇯🇵 トロープ

🇫🇷 trop

🇪🇸 tropo

🇹🇷 trope

🇰🇷 트로프

🇸🇦 استعارة

🇨🇿 trop

🇸🇰 trop

🇨🇳 修辞

🇸🇮 trope

🇮🇸 trope

🇰🇿 троп

🇬🇪 ტროპი

🇦🇿 trop

🇲🇽 tropo

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,824, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
21821 resonate
21822 finery
21823 reticent
21824 trope
21825 liars
21826 spreader
21827 bullied
...