a twist in the plot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a twist in the plot" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a surprising or unexpected development in a story or narrative. Example: "The novel was engaging, but the real excitement came with a twist in the plot that left readers stunned."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The backlot of Shreveport, already rich in lore, may be picking up a few new characters and a twist in the plot.

The New York Times

There was a twist in the plot as Zaha was sold to Manchester United in January 2013, becoming Alex Ferguson's last ever purchase, but he was instantly loaned back to Palace for the rest of the season.

The Guardian - Sport

He was sceptical of generalisation about the ways of the world: almost every time a character in one of the plays gives voice to a piece of sententious wisdom, someone else says something that contradicts it – or a twist in the plot makes the seeming wisdom look foolish.

The Guardian

Yet there seems to be a twist in the plot, with reports emerging that supporters of the "Islamist" Gulen movement may have been behind the attempt.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The character also was the key to a surprise twist in the plot.

Los Angeles Times

Perhaps it's because of my thoughts on BioShock that I kept on expecting a massive twist in the plot.

Vice

Perhaps it's because of my thoughts of BioShock that I kept on expecting a massive twist in the plot.

Vice

Now, four major players remain, and tonight's result is going to go a long way in determining whether the remainder of the early primary season goes as many have predicted, or if there's a sudden twist in the plot.

Huffington Post

But the fourth episode, which included a neck-wrenching twist in the plot, raised critical hackles again.

The New York Times

But then Americans did moralize about their unique destiny, and here Kagan, as an American, does not quite see the ironical twist in the plot.

The New York Times

The most engaging twist in the plot involves the X-Men's very essence.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a twist in the plot" to signal a significant and unexpected change in a narrative, creating anticipation or surprise for the audience.

Common error

Avoid using "a twist in the plot" too frequently, as it can diminish the impact of genuine surprises and make your writing predictable. Use it sparingly for maximum effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a twist in the plot" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase denotes an unexpected turn or surprising development in a narrative.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a twist in the plot" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that refers to an unexpected turn or surprising development in a narrative. Ludwig AI supports this, and real-world examples from reputable news sources demonstrate its consistent use. While relatively uncommon, the phrase is best employed to create anticipation and should be used sparingly to maintain its impact. Alternative phrases such as "an unexpected turn of events" or "a surprising development" can be used to diversify writing. When using this expression in your writing, ensure it follows logically from the established context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unexpected turn of events

This alternative emphasizes the sudden and unforeseen nature of the change.

a surprising development

This option highlights the element of surprise in the unfolding situation.

an unforeseen complication

This choice focuses on the added difficulty or complexity introduced by the unexpected event.

a dramatic turn

This phrase underscores the heightened intensity or emotional impact of the change.

a plot complication

This alternative is more concise and directly refers to an issue or element that complicates the storyline.

a reversal of fortune

This option indicates a significant change in someone's circumstances, often from good to bad or vice versa.

a change of direction

This phrase suggests a shift in the course or trajectory of the narrative.

a shift in the narrative

This focuses on the change in the story being told.

an unexpected development in the story

This is a more detailed and explicit version, emphasizing the narrative context.

a surprising turn of events

It combines the elements of surprise and change in circumstances.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a twist in the plot" in my writing?

Use "a twist in the plot" to introduce unexpected changes that alter the course of your narrative. Ensure it logically follows from the established context and enhances the overall story.

What are some alternatives to "a twist in the plot"?

You can use alternatives like "an unexpected turn of events", "a surprising development", or "a dramatic turn" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to reveal "a twist in the plot" in a story's summary?

Generally, it's best to avoid revealing significant plot twists in summaries to prevent spoilers. Instead, focus on intriguing elements that entice readers without giving away key surprises.

How does "a twist in the plot" differ from a red herring?

"A twist in the plot" is a significant change in the narrative's direction, while a red herring is a misleading clue intended to distract the audience from the actual outcome. While both create surprise, their purposes differ significantly.