vignette
What does "vignette" mean?
A vignette is a brief, evocative description, account, or episode. Imagine a small portrait or a decorative design that fades away at the edges without a defined border; in writing, it is a short scene that captures a single moment or impression rather than telling a complete, linear story. It is typically used in literary or artistic contexts to describe a "slice of life." You might use it to talk about a short story that focuses on atmosphere and character development rather than a heavy plot, or to describe a small, illustrative scene in a larger work.
"vignette" in conversation
Discussing a book
Did you like the latest chapter?
Did you like the latest chapter?
It felt more like a series of vignettes than a novel.
It felt more like a series of vignettes than a novel.
Used to describe a non-linear narrative style.
Art class critique
Focus on the lighting for your vignette.
Focus on the lighting for your vignette.
I wanted it to look like an old-fashioned portrait.
I wanted it to look like an old-fashioned portrait.
Used here in the artistic sense of a decorative or photographic border effect.
"vignette" in a sentence
The author included a vignette about her childhood in the prologue.
The author included a vignette about her childhood in the prologue.
The film is structured as a collection of vignettes capturing the daily struggles of city life.
The film is structured as a collection of vignettes capturing the daily struggles of city life.
Her writing style is defined by poignant, impressionistic vignettes that linger in the reader's mind long after the book is closed.
Her writing style is defined by poignant, impressionistic vignettes that linger in the reader's mind long after the book is closed.
