Plot

Definition

The term "plot" refers to the main events of a story arranged in a specific sequence. It can also mean a small piece of land or a secret plan by a group to do something harmful.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /plɑːt/
• Respelling: PLAHT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /plɒt/
• Respelling: PLOT

Etymology

The word "plot" comes from the Old English "plot," meaning a small piece of land, and Old French "complot," meaning "conspiracy." Its application to storytelling dates back to the 16th century, when it began to refer to the sequence of events in a narrative.

Derivatives

• Plotting (verb/noun)
• Plotter (noun)
• Subplot (noun)
• Overplot (verb/noun)
• Plotline (noun)

Synonyms

• Storyline
• Narrative
• Scheme

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The word "plot" is used in literature, gardening, and discussions of secretive plans. For example: "The plot of the novel was captivating," or "They bought a plot of land to build a house."

Related Terms

• Story: A narrative of real or imagined events.
• Scenario: A description of possible events or outcomes.
• Conspiracy: A secret plan by a group to do something unlawful.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The sequence of events in a narrative: Refers to the structure and arrangement of incidents in a story.
  • Example: "The novel's plot included a surprising twist."
• A small piece of land: Describes a defined area used for specific purposes like gardening or construction.
  • Example: "They purchased a plot of land near the countryside."
• A secret plan or conspiracy: Refers to a scheme devised for illicit or harmful purposes.
  • Example: "The authorities uncovered a plot to overthrow the government."

Verb

• To plan or devise: Indicates the act of creating a strategy or plan.
  • Example: "They plotted the course for their journey."
• To secretly scheme or conspire: Refers to making secret plans for an unlawful purpose.
  • Example: "The group was accused of plotting against their rivals."
• To mark or map out: Refers to graphically representing data or a course of action.
  • Example: "The scientist plotted the data points on the graph."