narrative arc — the chronological construction of plot in a novel or story, showing the progression from beginning through middle to end
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the chronological construction of plot in a novel or story, showing the progression from beginning through middle to end
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈnærətɪv ɑːrk/
Example Sentences
- The soap opera's narrative arc has been dragging on for 20 years - even the characters forgot what they were originally fighting about!
- Shakespeare's plays demonstrate masterful narrative arcs that have influenced storytelling for centuries.
- My diet has a narrative arc too: hope, temptation, pizza, regret, and repeat.
narrative arc
NOUN//ˈnærətɪv ɑːrk//
the chronological construction of plot in a novel or story, showing the progression from beginning through middle to end

A narrative arc shows character's journey from beginning through climax to end

The narrative arc begins to spark, reaching its mark, then grows dark — the story's complete and timeless arc
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'narrativus' meaning 'relating to narration' (from 'narrare' meaning 'to tell or recount'), combined with 'arc' from Latin 'arcus' meaning 'bow' or 'curve', used metaphorically to describe the shape of a story's progression.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The soap opera's narrative arc has been dragging on for 20 years - even the characters forgot what they were originally fighting about!”
“Shakespeare's plays demonstrate masterful narrative arcs that have influenced storytelling for centuries.”
“My diet has a narrative arc too: hope, temptation, pizza, regret, and repeat.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.