prologue
What does "prologue" mean?
A prologue is an introductory section or event that comes before the main body of a creative work, such as a book, play, or musical composition. Think of it as the "curtain raiser" that sets the stage, provides essential background information, or establishes the tone for the story that is about to unfold. In a broader sense, the term is often used to describe an event or action that serves as a precursor to a more significant development. While it is most commonly associated with literature and drama, you might hear it used in professional or political contexts to describe the initial steps that lead up to a major change or conflict.
"prologue" in conversation
Discussing a book
Did you finish the first chapter yet?
Did you finish the first chapter yet?
I'm still stuck on the prologue! It's so mysterious.
I'm still stuck on the prologue! It's so mysterious.
Stick with it, it makes way more sense later.
Stick with it, it makes way more sense later.
Used to describe the opening part of a narrative.
Political analysis
Do you think these protests are the end of the movement?
Do you think these protests are the end of the movement?
No, I think this is just the prologue to a much larger political shift.
No, I think this is just the prologue to a much larger political shift.
Used metaphorically to describe the beginning of a larger event.
"prologue" in a sentence
The author wrote a short prologue to explain the history of the kingdom.
The author wrote a short prologue to explain the history of the kingdom.
The prologue sets a dark, suspenseful tone that continues throughout the novel.
The prologue sets a dark, suspenseful tone that continues throughout the novel.
These minor disagreements were merely the prologue to their eventual falling out.
These minor disagreements were merely the prologue to their eventual falling out.
