strict plot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strict plot" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a narrative structure that adheres closely to a defined storyline without deviations or subplots. Example: "The film's strict plot kept the audience engaged, as every scene contributed directly to the main storyline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Strict plot, unruly, vagrant narrative.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Nor is it driven by the strict exigencies of plot.

The New York Times - Books

They are caught up in a strict and ferocious plot — both onstage and off, people are being killed — but the total experience, however unplayful it looks, may still be a kind of game, as formal in its rules as chess.

The New Yorker

Strict lovers of plot may not fall for the ruminative sprawl in this latest novel by the underappreciated Robert Boswell, but most everyone else will find a deft twining of irony and insight on nearly every page.

The New York Times - Books

Certainly, the show's formula was strict: usually four plots — two deep, two shallow — linked by Carrie's voice-over.

The New Yorker

Cardboard characters, no emotion nor interlocking relationships, but also no sadism and violence beyond the strict demands of the plot.

The Guardian

One version of the interpretation is the conventional medical chart, and another is the case report, but, as Hunter put it, both these are "narrowly conceived and standardized by strict conventions of tone, plot, and allowable detail".

BMC Family Practice

Delineation of migration routes during seasonal entry and exit with strict observance to farming plots, water points and agricultural lands.

Pastoralism: Research, Policy and Practice

This plot reveals a strict linear relationship of the quantitative miRNA expression between both groups with a slope of 1.00±0.01 (r2 = 0.99, n = 72).

Plosone

The wadi is believed to have sprung up around 1840, developed by Dadoba Waman Khot from the Pathare Prabhu community (a group of strict Hindu Brahmins) who sold plots of land to the growing group of East Indian Christians.

The New York Times

The constraints to produce these plots are rather strict as we considered only superfamilies with at least 1060%% sequence identity clusters with functional site data.

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - General Subjects

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a story, film, or play, use "strict plot" to emphasize a narrative that adheres closely to a single, focused storyline without excessive subplots or digressions. It conveys a sense of discipline and deliberate control in the storytelling.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "strict plot" necessarily implies a lack of creativity or originality. A well-executed "strict plot" can be highly engaging and innovative, as the focus is on the precision and impact of each element within the defined narrative structure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strict plot" functions primarily as a descriptive term, modifying the noun "plot" to indicate its adherence to a defined structure. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in describing narratives that are tightly controlled.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "strict plot" describes a narrative that adheres closely to a defined storyline without unnecessary deviations. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound, though relatively uncommon. It's often used in news, media and scientific sources. When using "strict plot", emphasize the narrative's focused and controlled progression. Alternatives include "tight narrative structure" and "rigid storyline". Remember that while a "strict plot" can be effective, it should not be mistaken for a lack of creativity; rather, it signifies a deliberate and disciplined approach to storytelling.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tight narrative structure

Focuses on the structure of the narrative being tightly controlled.

rigid storyline

Emphasizes the inflexibility and adherence to a predetermined course of events.

constrained plot

Highlights the limitations and restrictions imposed on the plot's development.

disciplined narrative

Suggests a narrative that is carefully managed and avoids digressions.

unbending plot

Implies a plot that does not deviate or change course easily.

linear narrative

Emphasizes a straightforward, chronological progression of events without complex diversions.

focused storyline

Highlights the clarity and narrow scope of the plot.

streamlined plot

Suggests a plot that is efficient and avoids unnecessary details.

orderly narrative

Implies a plot that follows a logical and predictable sequence of events.

controlled storyline

Focuses on the deliberate and careful management of the plot's progression.

FAQs

What does it mean to say a story has a "strict plot"?

A "strict plot" refers to a narrative structure that adheres closely to a defined storyline without deviations or subplots. It emphasizes a focused and controlled progression of events.

How can I use "strict plot" in a sentence?

You might say, "The film's "strict plot" kept the audience engaged, as every scene contributed directly to the main storyline."

What are some alternatives to saying "strict plot"?

Consider using alternatives such as "tight narrative structure", "rigid storyline", or "constrained plot" to convey a similar meaning.

Is a "strict plot" always a good thing in storytelling?

Not necessarily. While a "strict plot" can create a focused and compelling narrative, it may also feel predictable or lack depth if not executed well. The effectiveness of a "strict plot" depends on the story's goals and the audience's expectations.