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

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

Some of the dialogue is frankly expository, seemingly designed to educate viewers.

From New York Times

Herzog’s adaptation prunes away the expository overgrowth of Ibsen’s satiric drama.

From Los Angeles Times