plot hole

American  

[plaht hohl] / ˈplɑt ˌhoʊl /

noun

plural

plot holes

1. an error in a narrative often causing the narrative to make less sense or be unsatisfying: generally refers to a plot element which is unresolved, poorly explained, or which contradicts the rest of the narrative.

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Other Word Forms

• plot-holed adjective
• plot-holey adjective

Example Sentences

But the cast does not treat the material with contempt, and though no one is stretching any harder than a house cat waking from a nap, they’re pros and pretend not to notice when the film gets ridiculous or runs into a plot hole.

From Los Angeles Times

That Violet could conceivably do the same thing is the film’s biggest weakness, a plot hole that could swallow viewers who can’t suspend disbelief.

From Salon

Although by some snooty reckoning, such series are less than what you’ll find on premium platforms, and if you do not ask them to be other than they are, can enjoy a little nonsense and tolerate a plot hole or two, they will fill an hour, and possibly many weeks of them, quite nicely.

From Los Angeles Times

Notable moment: Here’s a slight plot hole: This film paints Bradley, Kat’s perfect man on paper, to be evil because he’s allergic to dogs.

From Seattle Times

"But Shyamalan's persistent refusal to leave behind any wonder, or instability, ultimately strips Old of its staying power. He seems more concerned with avoiding any potential plot hole that might send Reddit users into a rage than he does in creating something emotionally satisfying."

From BBC