in medias res

The term "in medias res" is a Latin phrase meaning "in the middle of things," commonly used in storytelling to capture immediate interest.

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Definition

C1Literature

(technical, academic)A technique where a story begins in the middle of the action, bypassing initial exposition.

Example

  • The novel opens in medias res, with the protagonist already embroiled in a conflict.
  • Starting in medias res, the film throws the audience directly into a high-stakes chase.