exposition

[ɛkspəˈzɪʃən]

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An exposition is an explanation or description of something, usually in detail. It's often used in writing, especially in non-fiction books.

When you hear about someone giving an exposition on their research project, they're probably going to talk for a while and tell you all about it. Expositions are also common in movies and documentaries, where experts explain scientific or historical concepts in a way that's easy to understand. Even if you're watching a film just for fun, there might be an exposition scene where the main character explains their thoughts and feelings in depth. Sometimes, expositions can feel a bit long-winded, but they help us get into the story or learn something new.

How common is "exposition"?

Word exposition is considered rare in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.

Definitions

noun

The action of exposing something to something, such as skin to the sunlight.
(authorship) The act or process of declaring or describing something through either speech or writing; the portions and aspects of a piece of writing that exist mainly to describe the setting, characters and other non-plot elements.
Example: My reviewer said she couldn't picture the setting for my story, so I'm improving the exposition.
The act of expulsion, or being expelled, from a place.
An event at which goods, artwork and cultural displays are exhibited for the public to view.
Example: The first prototype was unveiled at an exposition.
(authorship) An essay or speech in which any topic is discussed in detail.
Example: I turned my research into an exposition on the traditional music of Borneo.
(authorship) An opening section in fiction, in which background information about the characters, events or setting is conveyed.
The opening section of a fugue; the opening section of a movement in sonata form
The abandonment of an unwanted child.

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Real examples of "exposition" in context

Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman Go Claws Out While Eating Spicy Wings | Hot Ones

Entertainment

I remember on X-Men 1, it wasn't, it wasn't, I was in the scene, but it was Patrick Stewart having to give a long bit of mutation, you know, it was a little, a little exposition.

10:19

exposition

How common is "exposition"?

noun

Real examples of "exposition" in context

Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman Go Claws Out While Eating Spicy Wings | Hot Ones

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