resolution
rez-uh-LOO-shun
/ˌrez.əˈluː.ʃən/
The part of a story's plot where the main problem or central conflict is settled and resolved.
Focuses on solving the plot's practical questions after the dramatic climax.
The story behind the word. From Latin resolvere, meaning to untie a knot or melt away a boundary. In story terms, it represents untying the plot knots tied during the narrative conflict.
Word relationships
- conclusion: Conclusion refers broadly to the end of a piece, while resolution refers to solving plot tensions.
- complication: Complication introduces new plot problems, whereas resolution solves them.
Commonly confused with
- denouement: Resolution solves the plot core; denouement unwinds the broader lingering aftermath and thematic threads.
Word family
- resolve (verb): To settle or find a solution to a problem.
Collocations
- plot resolution
- bring to a resolution
- satisfying resolution
- peaceful resolution
Example sentences
- "A satisfying resolution answered all lingering questions regarding the stolen artifact." Story analysis
Memory hook
RESOLUTION SOLVES the narrative puzzle. Unknotting the plot problems.
When not to use
Do not confuse narrative resolution with personal firm decisions (New Year's resolutions), though both come from the same root.
Fun facts
- In musical theory, a resolution refers to a discordant chord moving smoothly into a harmonious chord.
Related words
Explore more words
resolute, settlement, mediation, decisive, dispute, compromise
Also appears in
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.