a plan made in secret by a group of people to do something illegal or harmful, the main events of a play, novel, movie, or similar work, devised and presented by the writer as an interrelated sequence, a small piece of land used for growing vegetables or flowers

thick as thieves (with someone), lose the plot, stick to the plot

thick plot, sub-plot, plot twist

Formal and Informal Expressions of plot

In different contexts, you can replace 'plot' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'scheme, strategy' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'plan, game plan' is a commonplace synonym.

plot: Explore its Definition & Usage

plot Definition

1a plan made in secret by a group of people to do something illegal or harmful
2the main events of a play, novel, movie, or similar work, devised and presented by the writer as an interrelated sequence
3a small piece of land used for growing vegetables or flowers

Using plot: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "plot" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The police uncovered a plot to rob the bank.
Example
The plot of the movie was difficult to follow.
Example
She spends most of her free time working in her garden plot.
Example
The book's plot revolves around a young woman's journey to self-discovery.

plot Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for plot

Antonyms for plot

disorganization
chaos

Idioms Using plot

thick as thieves (with someone)
very close friends with someone, often implying a secretive or conspiratorial relationship
Example
Ever since they were kids, they've been thick as thieves.
lose the plot
to become confused or lose one's sense of direction
Example
I'm sorry, I think I've lost the plot. Can you explain that again?
stick to the plot
to stay focused on the main topic or objective
Example
Let's stick to the plot and not get sidetracked by irrelevant details.

Phrases with plot

thick plot
a complex and intricate plot with many twists and turns
Example
The novel's thick plot kept readers engaged until the very end.
sub-plot
a secondary plot in a work of literature or drama that is subordinate to the main plot
Example
The sub-plot involving the protagonist's best friend added depth to the story.
plot twist
an unexpected development or turn of events in a plot
Example
The movie's plot twist completely surprised the audience.

Origins of plot

from Old English 'plottian', meaning 'to mark out a piece of land'

📌

Summary: plot in Brief

The term 'plot' [plɒt] has three main meanings: a secret plan to do something illegal or harmful, the main events of a work of literature or drama, and a small piece of land used for gardening. It can refer to a 'thick plot' with many twists and turns, or a 'sub-plot' that adds depth to the story. Idioms like 'thick as thieves' and 'lose the plot' convey close relationships and confusion, respectively.