What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
storyline
Example
The storyline of the movie was easy to follow. [storyline: noun]
Example
The author spent a lot of time developing the storyline before writing the book. [storyline: noun]
plot
Example
The plot of the novel was full of unexpected twists and turns. [plot: noun]
Example
The author skillfully wove together multiple plots to create a complex and engaging story. [plot: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Plot is more commonly used than storyline in literature and everyday language. Plot is a versatile term that can be used to describe the specific events and conflicts that occur within a story, while storyline is less common and often used in film and television to describe the overall narrative arc.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between storyline and plot?
Both storyline and plot are neutral terms that can be used in formal and informal contexts.
