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suspense
Suspense (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology
IPA:
What does suspense mean?
A feeling of uncertainty or excitement about what is going to happen next, often associated with movies, books, or plays.
"By the climax of the film, the suspense had built to an almost unbearable peak."
Detailed Meaning of Suspense
It is a mental state of anticipation and anticipation that creates a sense of tension and keeps the audience or reader engaged. Suspense can be generated in a variety of ways, such as by delaying the resolution of a conflict, creating uncertainty about the outcome of an event, or by introducing new elements that threaten to disrupt the status quo. This feeling of uncertainty and anticipation can lead to a strong emotional response in the audience, such as fear, anxiety, or excitement. When used effectively, suspense can make a story or performance more engaging and memorable, and can create a lasting impact on the audience.
Example Sentences for Suspense
1. Throughout the novel, waves of suspense kept the readers glued to every word.
2. The suspense in the dimly lit room was so thick, one could almost touch it.
3. Every chapter masterfully wove intricate details, adding to the overwhelming suspense.
4. As a writer, she has an uncanny ability to infuse her tales with layers of suspense.
5. As the clock ticked on, the suspense in the air became increasingly tense.
6. His novels, known for their twists, are a masterclass in the art of suspense.
Origin and Etymology of Suspense
The noun 'suspense' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'suspendere,' which is a combination of 'sub,' meaning 'from below' or 'up,' and 'pendere,' meaning 'to hang.' In its original sense, 'suspendere' meant to hang up or hang in a state of uncertainty. Over time, this notion of hanging in an uncertain state evolved to describe the feeling of uncertainty or excitement about what is going to happen next. In the context of movies, books, or plays, 'suspense' refers to the deliberate creation of anticipation and tension in the audience, often by withholding crucial information or building up to a climactic moment. Therefore, the etymology of 'suspense' highlights its connection to the concept of hanging in a state of uncertainty, which is central to the experience of suspense as a dramatic and emotional tool, as conveyed by its linguistic heritage.
Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding
Find the correct meaning of the noun suspense:
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More Usage Examples of Suspense
1. Personally, I struggle when movies have too much suspense; my heart can't take it!
2. The haunting suspense of the tale lingered in our minds long after the final page.
3. With every passing moment, the suspense of the situation became even more intense.
4. In the realm of thriller writers, creating suspense is an absolute art form.
5. Suspense, for many, is the key ingredient that keeps pages turning late into the night.
6. No other genre holds a candle to thrillers when it comes to raw suspense.
7. The best directors know how to pace suspense, letting it build steadily to a crescendo.
8. To truly grip your audience, one must understand the delicate balance of suspense.
9. The suspense was heightened by the eerie silence that filled the abandoned mansion.
10. She whispered her secret, and the suspense in the room reached a new zenith.
11. As the seconds turned to minutes, everyone could feel the weight of the mounting suspense.
12. There's a certain charm in stories where suspense mingles with romance or comedy.
13. The game, filled with unexpected turns, was a roller coaster of suspense and emotions.
14. The suspense in the thriller novel kept me up all night, eager to uncover the mystery.
15. The movie's suspense built to a climax, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats.
16. The tension and suspense in the courtroom were palpable as the verdict was announced.
17. The suspense in the detective series always left viewers craving the next episode.
18. The playwright masterfully crafted suspense in the opening scene of the play.
19. The director used music to heighten the suspense in the suspenseful chase scene.
20. The unexpected twist added an extra layer of suspense to the already gripping story.
21. The final moments of the game were filled with suspense as the score remained tied.
22. The anticipation and suspense leading up to the concert were almost unbearable.
23. The silence in the room was filled with suspense as the magician prepared his grand finale.
24. The novel's suspenseful climax left readers eagerly awaiting the sequel.
Synonyms and Related Words for Suspense
Related Vocabulary Practice
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Entertainment and Performance
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✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.
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✔ 147 categorized lessons, 428 practical activities, 632 pages.
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✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT