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epistolary

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌɛpɪˈstɒləri/

KK: /ɪˈpɪstəˌlɛri/

adjective
Definition

Relating to letters or the writing of letters, often used to describe a style of communication or literature that is presented in the form of letters.


Example

The novel is written in an epistolary format, with characters communicating through letters.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever read an epistolary novel before?
Sloth B
Yeah, I really enjoyed the way the story unfolded through letters.
Sloth A
I find that format so interesting and personal.
Sloth B
Absolutely! It makes you feel connected to the characters.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
lettered
written
correspondent
Antonyms
oral
spoken
verbal
noun
Definition

A type of writing that involves letters or correspondence, often used in literature to tell a story through letters exchanged between characters.


Example

The novel was written in an epistolary format, with each chapter consisting of letters between the main characters.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever read an epistolary novel?
Sloth B
Yeah, I love how they tell stories through letters.
Sloth A
I find that style really engaging and personal.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Epistolary is formed from "epistola" (meaning letter) and the suffix "-ary" (meaning relating to). The word refers to something that is related to or characteristic of letters, especially in the context of literary works written in the form of letters.

Memory Tip

Think of 'epistola' as a letter, and remember that 'epistolary' means relating to letters, especially in writing.

Visually Confused Words
unepistolary
pistillary
Is this page helpful?
Definitely! It feels like you're part of the characters' conversations.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
letter
message
correspondence
Antonyms
silence
disregard
neglect