Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Serving to explain or describe something clearly and in detail: The word "expositive" describes something, typically writing or speech, whose primary purpose is to set forth facts, explain a concept, or describe a subject in a clear, logical, and often academic manner.

Usage

The adjective "expositive" is used to characterize a style, mode, or piece of communication that is explanatory. It is a formal term, often used in academic, literary, or analytical contexts. - It is typically placed before a noun (e.g., expositive writing, expositive function). - It can also follow a linking verb like "is" or "seems" (e.g., The passage is expositive).

Examples

• The textbook's first chapter is purely expositive, laying out the fundamental principles of physics.
• Her lecture was more expositive than argumentative; she focused on explaining the historical timeline.
• The report includes an expositive section that clarifies the methodology used in the research.

Advanced Usage

• Expositive Discourse: A type of communication or writing that is primarily concerned with explanation and information rather than narrative or persuasion.
  • The philosopher's essay was a model of clear expositive discourse.
• Expositive Function: The role a text or speech plays in explaining or informing.
  • In this manual, the expositive function takes precedence over all others.

Variants and Related Words

• Expository (adj): This is a much more common synonym for "expositive" and is used interchangeably. The meaning is identical.
  • He is skilled in expository writing.
• Exposition (n): The comprehensive description and explanation of an idea or theory.
  • The article provides a detailed exposition of the economic theory.
• Expositor (n): A person or thing that explains or interprets.
  • He was a renowned expositor of classical literature.

Synonyms

• Explanatory: Serving to explain.
• Descriptive: Serving to describe, especially in a detailed, non-judgmental way.
• Interpretive: Serving to explain the meaning of something.
• Elucidatory: Serving to make something clear; explanatory.

Antonyms

• Narrative: Telling a story or recounting events.
• Persuasive: Intended to convince someone to do or believe something.
• Argumentative: Using or characterized by systematic reasoning and debate.
• Obscure: Not clearly expressed or easily understood.

Adjective

1. serving to expound or set forth
   • clean expository writing