an overarching plot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an overarching plot" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a central storyline that connects various elements or subplots within a narrative. Example: "The novel is engaging not only for its characters but also for its overarching plot that ties all the events together."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Create an overarching plot.

WikiHow

Or an overarching plot.

The Guardian

After a while, it becomes clear that what propels the novel isn't an overarching plot or a conspiracy but anecdotes, episodes, and fantastical interludes that point to the book's guiding ethos.

The New Yorker

On launch, the game was an odd mix of the extremely polished action that Bungie had developed a reputation for throughout its years on Halo, tied together with an overarching plot which, to put it kindly, made no sense.

The Guardian - Tech

"The stories are all linked through an overarching plot, but this one is unusual in that it is entirely backstory, set in the 1960s," said Tel. "I wanted to write about the Chinese equivalent of the Manhattan Project – it's top secret, which for a fiction writer is great, because you can make stuff up".

The Guardian - Books

Mr Kershaw's report did find evidence of "key individuals" moving between schools but stopped short of identifying an overarching plot or conspiracy.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

If there is any overarching plot, it's meant to be absorbed the way you'd absorb the day's news on The Actual Facebook: by idly opening tabs.

Vice

Unlike the other shows, this one does have a serious overarching plot but you can still enjoy it week to week.

Huffington Post

Besides reading the story, the newspapers give access to a short cinematic that either covers a part of the game's overarching plot or a flashback to Phelps' war memories.

Wikipedia

The overarching plot about a despot ruler and rebel forces rocked by internal divisions isn't all that remarkable, but that you can finish the game without even firing off a single bullet certainly is.

Vice

Instead, with Fringe, they were able to create "clearly defined goalposts" (in Itzkoff's words) that could be altered as necessary with network and seasonal changes but always provided a clear target for the overarching plot.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When outlining your story, first define the "an overarching plot" to ensure all subplots contribute to the main narrative's themes and resolution.

Common error

Avoid introducing too many subplots that distract from the "an overarching plot". Keep the main storyline the central focus of your narrative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an overarching plot" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the subject or object in a sentence, referring to the main storyline or narrative structure of a story or series. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an overarching plot" is a grammatically correct and commonly used term to describe the central narrative or storyline that connects different elements within a story, film, or series. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various contexts, particularly in discussions about media and literature. While versatile, it's important to avoid excessive subplots that may distract from the main storyline. Alternatives like "a central narrative" or "a main storyline" can be used for variety. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media sources, indicating its relevance in contemporary discussions about storytelling.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a central narrative

Emphasizes the core story being told, focusing on the narrative's centrality.

a main storyline

Highlights the primary plot thread, emphasizing its importance.

a comprehensive storyline

Stresses the completeness and all-encompassing nature of the plot.

a unifying plot

Highlights the plot's role in bringing different elements together.

a grand narrative

Suggests a plot of considerable scale and significance.

a thematic framework

Focuses on the underlying themes that structure the plot.

a connected narrative

Emphasizes the interconnectedness of the plot's elements.

a story arc

Highlights the development and progression of the plot over time.

a master plot

Indicates a dominant and controlling plot that guides the narrative.

the big picture plot

Simplifies the phrase to emphasize the main idea of the storyline.

FAQs

How can I use "an overarching plot" in a sentence?

You can use "an overarching plot" to describe the main storyline that connects all the events in a story, for example: "The success of the series relies on its compelling "an overarching plot".

What's another way to say "an overarching plot"?

Alternatives include "a central narrative", "a main storyline", or "a unifying plot".

What makes "an overarching plot" effective in storytelling?

An effective "an overarching plot" provides direction and purpose to the narrative, ensuring that all subplots and character arcs contribute to a cohesive and satisfying whole.

How does "an overarching plot" differ from a subplot?

While a subplot is a secondary story that runs parallel to the main one, "an overarching plot" is the primary narrative that drives the entire story forward.