Epigraph: Definition and Synonyms
epigraph – Definition and Part of Speech
An epigraph is a noun referring to a short quotation or saying at the beginning of a book, chapter, or other written work that often provides insight into its themes or mood. It can also refer to an inscription on a monument or artwork. This word does not have multiple grammatical forms like some verbs (e.g., “to run” vs. “run” as a noun) but is strictly used in the context of writing and inscriptions.
Core Synonyms
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quotation | A direct excerpt from another work, often longer. | “The book began with a famous quotation about perseverance.” | Formal/Academic |
| Inscription | An engraved or written text on an object. | “A tombstone bears the inscription of the deceased’s life dates.” | Formal/Artistic |
| Headnote | A note placed at the beginning, sometimes explanatory. | “The headnote provided context for the following chapter.” | Academic/Formal |
| Preface | An introductory section explaining purpose. | “In his preface, the author describes his journey to writing this book.” | Informal/Professional |
Usage Notes
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Quotation: This term is typically used in academic settings or business environments where a direct excerpt from another work is cited to support an argument or introduce a topic.
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Inscription: Best suited for contexts involving art, history, and archaeology. It refers specifically to text engraved on surfaces like monuments, buildings, or artwork.
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Headnote: Common in academic papers and books that include sections of commentary or explanation preceding the main content. Headnotes offer insights or background information relevant to the chapter or section.
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Preface: Often used when referring to an author’s introductory remarks at the beginning of a book or publication where they outline their intentions, motivations, or acknowledgments before diving into the core material.
Common Pitfalls
A frequent mistake is using “epigraph” interchangeably with “quotation” without considering context. While both involve quoting from another source, an epigraph serves a specific thematic purpose, while a quotation can serve various purposes within and beyond introductions.
Additionally, people may confuse “epigraph” with “preface.” While they both introduce content, a preface is more extensive and written by the author, whereas an epigraph typically comprises a few lines or sentences from another source.
Final Recap
In summary, epigraph primarily refers to a short introductory quotation that sets the tone for a literary work. Its main synonyms include quotation, which can be longer; inscription, used for engraved texts on objects; headnote, offering explanatory notes at the beginning of sections; and preface, an introduction written by the author themselves.
To enhance your understanding, try crafting sentences using these synonyms in different contexts. Engage with various literary works to observe how epigraphs are employed effectively, thereby enriching both comprehension and expressive capability.