exposition

A detailed explanation of an idea, especially in writing.

• The book gives a clear exposition of the idea.
• His exposition helped us understand the argument.
• These expositions explain two different theories.

How to use it: exposition of something (The chapter offers an exposition of her theory.)

Similar words: explanation, account

Common phrases: clear exposition, exposition of something

The opening part of a story that introduces its people, situation, and setting.

• The exposition introduces the main characters.
• Her novel uses dialogue for its exposition.
• The film’s exposition tells us why the family moved.

Common phrases: opening exposition, exposition scene

A public show where people can see products, art, or displays about different cultures.

• We visited an exposition of local art.
• The international exposition attracted thousands of visitors.
• Several companies displayed new products at the exposition.

Similar words: exhibition, show, fair

Common phrases: art exposition, international exposition

A piece of writing or a speech that explains a subject in detail.

• She wrote an exposition on farming.
• We listened to his exposition of the problem.
• The collection contains three expositions on music.

How to use it: exposition on something (She delivered an exposition on local history.)

Similar words: essay, treatise

Common phrases: written exposition, exposition on something

The act of leaving something open to the effects of light, air, or another substance.

• Exposition to sunlight damaged the cloth.
• The report described the paint’s exposition to heat.
• Long exposition to the air changed the metal’s surface.

How to use it: exposition of something to something (Exposition of the cloth to sunlight weakened its color.)

Similar words: exposure

Common phrases: exposition to light, exposition to sunlight