prose - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
prose Word Meanings
- a written form of language without metrical structure
- ordinary language used in speaking or writing
- the direct opposite of poetry
prose Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
prose Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/prəʊz/
US
/proʊz/
prose Word Etymology
pro- = forward, se = series; Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a flowing river of words moving forward, just like writing in prose.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Prose is a written form of language that uses ordinary grammatical structure and natural speech rhythms, without the metrical patterns of poetry. It covers novels, essays, articles, and everyday writing. Prose presents ideas clearly and directly, shaping scenes, arguments, and descriptions through sentences of varying length. The term contrasts with poetry, which relies on line breaks, rhythm, and figurative language. Etymology traces 'prose' to Latin and Old French roots implying forward flow, like a river of words moving onward. For learners, focus on straightforward sentence construction, punctuation, and consistent tense to make prose feel natural rather than ornamental.
Usage Reminders
- Use prose for straightforward narration; avoid over-styling; vary sentence length to create rhythm; keep tense consistent; quote dialogue clearly.
Common Misconceptions
- Prose is the same thing as poetry.
- Prose can only be found in novels, not essays or articles.
- Prose must be long and ornate to sound literary.
- Every sentence in prose carries a literary flourish.
- Dialogue in prose should always be broken into short lines like poetry.
Thinking Differences
Prose is viewed as plain, narrative language in English; many learners over-sexualize or try to copy literary flourish from poetry.
Learning Tips
- Read several pages of plain prose and note sentence variety.
- Practice shifting from short to long sentences for rhythm.
- Label dialogue with quotation marks clearly.
- Keep tenses consistent across paragraphs.
- Annotate unfamiliar transitional phrases in margin.
- Rewrite a paragraph with different sentence lengths.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'prose'?
A.Ordinary writing
B.Fictional storytelling
C.A type of poetry
D.Ancient language
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'prose' used correctly?
A.She composed a beautiful poem in prose style.
B.His prose was filled with rhythmic elements.
C.The students were asked to write a play in prose format.
D.The author's prose was rich in figurative language.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'prose'?
A.Poetry
B.Non-fiction
C.Verse
D.Narrative
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would you encounter 'prose'?
A.School essays
B.Legal documents
C.Social media posts
D.Musical lyrics
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of 'prose' in a sentence?
A.Her prose writing style is clear and concise.
B.I enjoy reading poetry more than prose.
C.The novel was written in an ornate prose.
D.Listening to music helps me understand prose better.
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