Ab ovo definitions
| Word backwards | ba ovo |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Ab ovo is a Latin phrase that is used in English as an adverb. It means "from the beginning" or "from the egg" and is often used to describe something that is presented in a chronological order. |
| Syllabic division | ab ovo (2 syllables) |
| Plural | The plural of ab ovo is ab ovis. |
| Total letters | 5 |
| Vogais (2) | a,o |
| Consonants (2) | b,v |
Ab ovo is a Latin term that means "from the beginning" or "from the egg." This term is often used in literature and art to refer to a narrative that starts at the earliest point in the story, rather than in media res, which starts in the middle of the action.
Origin of Ab Ovo
The expression "ab ovo" comes from the Latin phrase "ab ovo usque ad mala," which translates to "from the egg to the apple." In ancient Rome, it was customary to begin a meal with eggs and end it with apples. This phrase indicated starting from the beginning of a meal to its end and eventually evolved to mean starting from the beginning of a story.
Use in Literature
In literature, starting a story "ab ovo" means telling the narrative in chronological order, beginning with the birth or creation of the main characters or events. This approach allows the audience to understand the development of the plot from its inception, providing a clear timeline of events.
Contrast with In Media Res
Starting a story "ab ovo" is in contrast to starting a story "in media res," which means starting in the middle of the action. While both techniques have their advantages, "ab ovo" provides a more structured and detailed account of events, giving readers a comprehensive understanding of the story's origins.
Overall, the term "ab ovo" is a valuable literary device that offers writers the opportunity to craft a narrative from its earliest stages, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of characters, events, and themes.
Ab ovo Examples
- The story was told ab ovo, starting from the very beginning.
- She decided to write her autobiography ab ovo, detailing her early childhood experiences.
- The filmmaker chose to present the narrative ab ovo, showing events in chronological order.
- The historian analyzed the events ab ovo, beginning with the earliest recorded evidence.
- The professor encouraged her students to approach the topic ab ovo to gain a comprehensive understanding.
- The artist created a series of paintings that depicted the story ab ovo, showcasing key moments in sequence.
- The chef prepared the dish ab ovo, following a traditional recipe that dated back centuries.
- The author crafted the novel ab ovo, starting with the protagonist's upbringing before diving into the main plot.
- The journalist investigated the case ab ovo, interviewing witnesses and examining old records.
- The architect approached the design ab ovo, considering the building's history and purpose from the ground up.