© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

subplot

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈsʌbˌplɒt/

KK: /ˈsʌbˌplɑt/

noun
Definition

A smaller story or theme that is part of a larger story, often found in books, movies, or plays.


Example

The movie had a subplot that explored the main character's childhood.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you read that new novel with the interesting subplot?
Sloth B
Yeah, I found it really engaging how it added depth to the main story.
Sloth A
Exactly! The subplot made the characters feel more real.
Sloth B
I agree, it was a nice touch that kept me hooked until the end.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
counterplot
underplot
subplot
Antonyms
mainplot
primary
dominant
Root Explanation

**Subplot** → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "plot" (from Old English *plot*, meaning a small piece of ground or a plan). The word "subplot" refers to a secondary plot that exists beneath the main plot in a narrative.

Memory Tip

Think of a story having a main plot and an additional one that runs 'under' ('sub-') it, like a hidden layer of storytelling.

Visually Confused Words
sublot
subdepot
Is this page helpful?