expository

Also ex·pos·i·tive

[ik-spoz-i-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee]

adjective

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

   an expository essay;

   expository writing.

expository

/ ɪkˈspɒzɪtərɪ, -trɪ /

adjective

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

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of expository¹

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.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

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

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

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

Read more on Salon

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

Read more on 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.

Read more on Salon