expository

American  

[ik-spoz-i-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee] / ɪkˈspɒz ɪˌtɔr i, -ˌtoʊr i /

Also expositive

adjective

1. of the nature of exposition; serving to expound, set forth, or explain.

   an expository essay;

   expository writing.

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expository British  

/ ɪkˈspɒzɪtərɪ, -trɪ /

adjective

1. of, involving, or assisting in exposition; explanatory

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Other Word Forms

• expositively adverb
• expositorily adverb
• semiexpositive adjective
• semiexpository adjective

Etymology

Origin of expository

From the Medieval Latin word expositōrius, dating back to 1590–1600. See expositor, -tory ¹

Example Sentences

There is an almost complete absence of expository dialogue.

From Los Angeles Times

With judicious trimming, particularly of the occasional puddle of expository or repetitive dialogue, the play would gain a tauter pace.

From The Wall Street Journal

Our first indication that he might not be like the other goons with badges is shown in his expository flashback.

From Salon

A first-person account would be compelling enough, especially given Thomas’ gift for terse, layered expository writing.

From Los Angeles Times

Plus, coming into “Dune: Prophecy” as a stone-cold uninitiate is a challenge for which the script compensates using a combination of summary via narration and a brief, expository title card.

From Salon