sequel

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sequel" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a work that continues the story or theme of an earlier one, such as a book, movie, or game. Example: "The sequel to the popular film was highly anticipated by fans eager to see what happens next."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The sequel!

The New York Times

This was a worthy sequel to the previous day, when, as one wit remarked, a party with just one MP had managed a backbench rebellion – as Ukip's solitary presence in Westminster, Douglas Carswell resisted party pressure to take the parliamentary subsidy known as Short money.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the studio has turned round matters with its $200m £120mm) sequel: all those greenbacks are now firmly trapped in Spidey's web, waiting for Hollywood to collect them as the movie drives all before it at the box office.

The Guardian - Film

"Still Gone with the Wind: The sequel picks up several years after where the 80-year-old original left off, with Rhett and Scarlett reuniting in their middle age, in 1880.

The Guardian

The sequel to one of the silliest TV movies of recent times (in a positive way) is set to air at the end of this month, and this time round there's an official app.

The Guardian - Tech

However, Hopcraft declined the invitation to adapt a sequel, Smiley's People.

The Guardian

Across the UK this weekend, crowds of fans will swarm to the first screenings of Avengers: Age of Ultron, the $250m £165mm) sequel that marks the start of this year's summer blockbuster season.

The Guardian - Film

"We'd love to do a sequel," Greaves says.

The Guardian - Film

But while no one will forget the Jess, Greg and Mo show, or the sequel a week later, for history on a truly epic scale you had to had to be at the ExceL on Thursday for the women's boxing finals.

The Guardian - Sport

As a tie-in for the upcoming Anchorman sequel, The Legend Continues, ice cream giants Ben & Jerry's have developed a limited edition variety of the frozen dessert, to be named Scotchy Scotch Scotch.

The Guardian - Film

In another sequel, wheelchair-user Anthony Ince tries and fails to imitate the 'race the tube' viral video from earlier this month.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a "sequel", ensure clarity by specifying the original work to avoid ambiguity. For example, say "the sequel to 'Gone with the Wind'".

Common error

Avoid using "sequel" loosely for any follow-up; it specifically denotes a continuation of the same story or universe. A mere thematic similarity doesn't qualify a work as a "sequel".

Linguistic Context

The word "sequel" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a narrative work that follows and continues the story of a previous one. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts like film, books, and TV shows.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Film

33%

Books

33%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "sequel" is a noun widely used to denote a narrative work that continues the story of a previous one. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently encountered in contexts such as News & Media, Film, and Books. When using the term, ensure you specify the original work to avoid ambiguity. Related terms include "follow-up" and "continuation". While a "sequel" may surpass the original, it generally requires prior knowledge of the first installment to fully appreciate it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

follow-up

Indicates a subsequent action or product related to a prior one.

continuation

Emphasizes the uninterrupted progression from an earlier point.

second installment

Specifically refers to the next part in a series of works.

second part

A direct and simple reference to the following section of a series.

subsequent chapter

Suggests a later phase or development within a larger narrative.

the next chapter

Similar to 'subsequent chapter' but with a slightly broader meaning

next iteration

Implies a refined or evolved version following an initial creation.

the after story

Focuses on what happened after the main events concluded

spin-off

A work that derives from an existing one, focusing on specific elements.

later development

Refers to events or products coming after an initial phase.

FAQs

How is a "sequel" different from a prequel?

A "sequel" follows the events of the original work, continuing the narrative forward. A prequel, conversely, explores events that happened before the original story.

What are some alternatives to the word "sequel"?

Depending on the context, you could use "follow-up", "continuation", or "second installment".

Can a "sequel" surpass the original in quality?

While rare, it's definitely possible. Factors like improved writing, special effects, or a stronger storyline can elevate a "sequel" beyond its predecessor.

Is it always necessary to watch the original before watching a "sequel"?

Generally, yes. Sequels often build upon the plot, characters, and themes of the original, so watching the original usually enriches the experience and provides necessary context.