Whodunit meaning

A whodunit is a mystery story where the identity of the perpetrator is revealed through detective work or investigation.


Whodunit definitions

Word backwards tinudohw
Part of speech Whodunit is a noun.
Syllabic division Who-dun-it.
Plural The plural of the word "whodunit" is "whodunits."
Total letters 8
Vogais (3) o,u,i
Consonants (5) w,h,d,n,t

Whodunit is a genre of detective fiction that focuses on solving a mystery, typically a murder. The term "whodunit" is derived from the phrase "who done it?" which is often the central question posed in these types of stories. Readers are presented with a puzzle that challenges them to use logic and reasoning to uncover the culprit behind the crime.

History of Whodunit

Whodunit stories have been popular since the 19th century, with authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Arthur Conan Doyle contributing to the genre's development. The classic format typically involves a detective who uses their keen observational skills and deductive reasoning to solve the mystery. Throughout the story, readers are presented with clues that can help them piece together the puzzle and identify the perpetrator.

Key Elements of a Whodunit

There are several key elements that are common in whodunit stories. These include a cast of characters, each with their own motives and alibis, a central crime that serves as the focal point of the story, and a detective or amateur sleuth who is tasked with unraveling the mystery. Red herrings, or false clues, are often scattered throughout the narrative to keep readers guessing until the final reveal.

Popular Whodunit Authors

Many authors have made significant contributions to the whodunit genre. Agatha Christie is perhaps one of the most well-known whodunit authors, with her iconic detective character Hercule Poirot solving intricate mysteries in novels like "Murder on the Orient Express" and "The Murder of Roger Ackroyd". Other notable authors include Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Dorothy L. Sayers, and Raymond Chandler.

Engagement and suspense are key components of a successful whodunit story. Readers should be kept on the edge of their seats as they follow along with the detective's investigation, trying to piece together the clues and solve the mystery before the big reveal. The satisfaction of uncovering the truth behind the crime is what keeps readers coming back to this beloved genre time and time again.

In conclusion, whodunit stories offer readers an engaging and intellectually stimulating experience as they work to uncover the truth behind a mystery. With well-crafted plot twists, intriguing characters, and clever detective work, these stories continue to captivate audiences and remain a popular genre in the world of fiction.


Whodunit Examples

  1. I love watching a good whodunit mystery on TV.
  2. The new novel I'm reading is a thrilling whodunit that keeps me guessing.
  3. The play we saw last night was a classic whodunit with a surprising twist at the end.
  4. My favorite genre of books is whodunit mysteries.
  5. After watching the movie, we spent hours discussing the different theories about the whodunit.
  6. The murder at the center of the whodunit was meticulously planned and executed.
  7. She's an expert at solving whodunit puzzles in record time.
  8. The whodunit plot of the video game kept me glued to the screen for hours.
  9. The whodunit party game was a big hit at our family gathering.
  10. The detective in the whodunit story was determined to uncover the truth, no matter the cost.


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  • Updated 18/04/2024 - 00:58:40