Suspense Meaning and Definition
Suspense
Pronunciation
/ˈsəspɛns/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A feeling of uncertainty or anxiety caused by a situation or event in which the outcome is not yet known, often accompanied by a sense of tension or anticipation.
Examples
- The plot twist at the end of the movie left me with a sense of suspense.
- The suspense of waiting for the results of the medical test was intense.
Synonyms
- Uncertainty
- Anticipation
- Awaitment
Antonyms
- Certainty
- Relief
- Release
Etymology
The word “Suspense” comes from the Latin “suspensum,” meaning “suspended,” and the Old French “suspens,” meaning “hesitation” or “uncertainty.”
Usage Notes
Suspense is often used to describe a situation or event that is exciting or thrilling, but also potentially threatening or uncertain.
Cultural References
Suspense is a common theme in literature, film, and television, often used to build tension and create a sense of excitement or uncertainty.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“On the edge of my seat” is an idiomatic expression that is closely related to the concept of suspense.
Related Words or Phrases
Words and phrases that are closely related to suspense include “tension,” “anticipation,” “anxiety,” and “uncertainty.”
Collocations
Suspense is often used in combination with words like “film,” “movie,” “story,” “novel,” and “play.
Frequency of Use
Suspense is a common concept in popular culture, and the word is often used in both written and spoken language.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of suspense include “sensous,” “suspence,” and “suspenz.”