WordValedenouement
the final resolution of a story's plot
the final resolution of a drama's plot
In more detail
1. (noun) the final part of a story, novel, or play in which everything is explained and resolved
2. (noun) the final outcome or conclusion of something that has been happening
Examples
- 1. The denouement of the mystery novel revealed that the butler was the killer all along.
- 2. After months of negotiation, the denouement of the business deal was finally announced.
How to use denouement
Denouement refers to the final unraveling of a narrative or situation, where loose ends are tied up and the outcome becomes clear. It carries a more literary or formal tone than simple words like 'ending' and often implies a satisfying or enlightening resolution rather than merely how something stops. The term is particularly common in literary criticism and is sometimes used metaphorically for real-world situations.
Common phrases
- dramatic denouement
- unexpected denouement
- the denouement arrives
- denouement of the story
- reach a denouement
Synonyms
resolution · conclusion · climax · ending · finale
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse denouement with climax; the climax is the turning point of highest tension, while the denouement comes after it to resolve what the climax set in motion.
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