Plotwise

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In terms of the narrative's structure, this relates to the sequence of events and the thematic elements that are intertwined within the story
2. Relating to how a story is structured, this involves the arrangement of events and their thematic implications throughout the narrative
3. In reference to a narrative, this pertains to the organization of events and the associated thematic elements that contribute to the overall story

Etymology: The term "plotwise" is a relatively modern English word that combines the base word "plot" with the adverbial suffix "-wise." The origin of "plot" can be traced back to the late Middle English "plote," which itself came from the Old French word "plote," meaning a small piece of ground or a plan, drawn from the Latin "plottus," which refers to a small piece of land or a plan. By the 14th century, "plot" had begun to take on meanings related to a scheme or a narrative framework, setting the stage for its later usage in literature and storytelling. The suffix "-wise" is derived from the Old English "-wīse," which means "manner" or "way." This suffix is used to form adverbs and adjectives that describe the relation of one thing to another, often indicating the manner in which something is done or the aspect under consideration. In combination, "plotwise" serves to specify the manner in which something pertains to the plot of a narrative or story. By the late 20th century, "plotwise" emerged within literary critique and analysis, often used to discuss events or developments in relation to the plot structure of a work. Its usage suggests a focused examination of how particular elements contribute to the overall narrative framework, emphasizing the importance of plot in storytelling. The word reflects a shift towards a more analytical approach to literature, where understanding the mechanics of the plot becomes essential to grasping the work as a whole. This term's formation, combining a core narrative concept with a descriptive suffix, illustrates the dynamic nature of English, where new words are created to meet the evolving needs of discourse. In literary criticism and analysis, it provides a succinct way to reference the plot-related aspects of a story without needing to elaborate extensively, thus streamlining discussions about narrative structure. While the term may not be as widely recognized outside of literary circles, its specificity makes it a useful addition to the vocabulary of those who engage deeply with narrative forms, allowing for nuanced discussions that consider how plot functions within a given work.

Synonyms: narratively, story-wise, in terms of plot, as for the plot, with regard to the plot