in medias res

English

Etymology

Borrowing from Latin in medias res.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ɪn ˌmiːdɪəs ˈɹeɪz/

Adverb

in medias res (not comparable)

1. In the middle of a storyline.

   This novel begins in medias res.

Synonyms

• in-between

Adjective

in medias res (not comparable)

1. Beginning in the middle of its storyline: said of a work of literature or a film.

   Although not strictly in medias res, the film uses flashbacks extensively.

Noun

in medias res (uncountable)

1. Narrative presented in medias res.
   • 2010 (March 31^st, 5:00pm): Ben “Yahtzee” Croshaw, “Final Fantasy XIII” reviewed by Zero Punctuation, 2:03–2:16

     Anyway, the characters have been introduced but by no means established. I know Final Fantasy’s always been big on in medias res, but even the most basic questions about the plot remain unanswered. Who the fuck are these people? What is going on? Why should I care? Can I stop playing now? Please?

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Spanish

Etymology

From Latin in medias res (literally “into the middle of things”).

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /in ˈme.ðjas ˌres/

Adverb

in medias res

1. in medias res

Adjective

in medias res (plural in medias res)

1. in medias res

Related terms

• ab initio
• ab ovo