1
Core meaning
A brief summary or general overview of a longer work, argument, or sequence.
Example
The abstract offers a concise synopsis of the study.
synopsis
/sɪˈnɒpsɪs/ · sih-NOP-sisnoun
A brief summary or general overview of a longer work, argument, or sequence.
Use synopsis to express this relationship precisely: a brief summary or general overview of a longer work, argument, or sequence.
What synopsis Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Common noun frame
Use this noun in a complete noun phrase, adding the complement that identifies what it refers to when needed.
Example
Before analysing the novel, the critic provides a short synopsis.
3
Analytical distinction
Choose it when this exact concept matters; a related term may describe its cause, evidence, or opposite instead.
Example
The report begins with a synopsis of its principal findings.
Use synopsis Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The abstract offers a concise synopsis of the study.
Before analysing the novel, the critic provides a short synopsis.
The report begins with a synopsis of its principal findings.
Precision Matters
Synopsis overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
synopsis
vs.Means a brief summary or general overview of a longer work, argument, or sequence.
in sum
Means introduce a concise conclusion or summary drawn from the preceding discussion.
synopsis
vs.Means a brief summary or general overview of a longer work, argument, or sequence.
in other words
Means restate an idea in clearer, simpler, or more explicit terms.
synopsis
vs.Means a brief summary or general overview of a longer work, argument, or sequence.
set forth
Means present, state, or explain ideas, rules, or arguments clearly and formally.
synopsis
vs.Means a brief summary or general overview of a longer work, argument, or sequence.
coherent
Means clear, logical, internally consistent, and forming a unified whole.
Test synopsis in Context
The paragraph briefly summarises a much longer work.
1
The programme includes a one-paragraph ___ of each play so audiences can understand its premise.