scenario

American  

[si-nair-ee-oh, -nahr-] / sɪˈnɛər iˌoʊ, -ˈnɑr- /

noun

plural

scenarios

1. an outline of the plot of a dramatic work, giving particulars as to the scenes, characters, situations, etc.

2. the outline or the manuscript of a motion picture or television program, giving the action in the order in which it takes place, the description of scenes and characters, etc.

3. an imagined or projected sequence of events, especially any of several detailed plans or possibilities.

   One scenario calls for doubling profits by increasing our advertising, the other by reducing costs.

   Synonyms:

   sketch, concept, plan, scheme

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scenario British  

/ sɪˈnɑːrɪˌəʊ, sɪˈnɑː-, ˈsiːnərɪst /

noun

1. a summary of the plot of a play, etc, including information about its characters, scenes, etc

2. a predicted sequence of events

   let's try another scenario, involving the demise of democracy

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Other Word Forms

• scenarist noun

Etymology

Origin of scenario

First recorded in 1875–80; from Italian, from Latin scaenārium, scēnārium, noun use of scaenārius, scēnārius “belonging to the stage, theatrical,” from scaen(a), scēn(a) “background, stage, theater” ( scene ) + -ārius -ary

Example Sentences

Even in the best-case scenario it would take three years for Venezuela to add 500,000 barrels a day to its oil production.

From Barron's

Even under that “hold-flat” scenario, production is projected to decline gradually without capital support.

From Barron's

Broader reconstruction scenarios paint a more expensive picture.

From Barron's

Chevron has detailed plans in which it could expand in Venezuela under certain scenarios, a person familiar with the matter said.

From The Wall Street Journal

“However, even in a hawkish rate hike scenario investors may be able to consider buying into weakness from 2.15% for 10-year bonds,” the rates strategist adds.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• plot
• scheme