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- DictionaryDe·us ex ma·chi·na/ˌdāəs ˌeks ˈmäkənə/
noun
- 1. an unexpected power or event saving a seemingly hopeless situation, especially as a contrived plot device in a play or novel.
A deus ex machina is a plot device whereby an unsolvable conflict or point of tension is suddenly resolved by the unexpected appearance of an implausible character, object, action, ability, or event. For example, if a character fell off a cliff and a flying robot suddenly appeared out of nowhere to catch them, that would be a deus ex machina.
Deus ex machina (pronounced DAY-us ex MACK-in-uh) is Latin for “a god from the machine.” It’s when some new character, force, or event suddenly shows up to solve a seemingly hopeless situation. The effect is usually unexpected, and it’s often disappointing for audiences.
Nov 24, 2021 · The deus ex machina device is generally regarded as a cheap way to insert an easy conclusion, but it can also function as a comedic device or add an element of surprise. Learn the meaning of deus ex machina and how it continues to function in today’s creative writing landscape.
DEUS EX MACHINA definition: 1. an unnatural or very unlikely end to a story or event, that solves or removes any problems too…. Learn more.
DEUS EX MACHINA meaning: 1. an unnatural or very unlikely end to a story or event, that solves or removes any problems too…. Learn more.
The literary device of deus ex machina means to solve a seemingly intractable problem in a plot by adding in an unexpected character, object, or situation. Deus ex machina often has the sense of being quite contrived, as it seems like the author must resort to something that he or she did not set up properly plot-wise.
Deus ex machina definition: (in ancient Greek and Roman drama) a god introduced into a play to resolve the entanglements of the plot.. See examples of DEUS EX MACHINA used in a sentence.
