§ What does 'epic' mean?
The word "epic" is used to describe a very long and grand story. Think of a story that goes on for a long, long time, perhaps even for many years within the story itself. These stories usually feature heroes – very brave and strong characters – who go on amazing adventures. They often deal with big, important events that can change the course of history or the lives of many people.
When you hear someone talk about an "epic" story, they are often referring to something that is much bigger and more significant than a regular story. It's not just a short tale; it's a sweeping narrative with many characters, places, and challenges.
- Definition
- A long book, poem, or movie that tells a story about heroes and great events. It usually covers a long period of time and many adventures.
§ When do people use 'epic'?
People use the word "epic" when they are talking about grand stories, particularly those found in older literature, like ancient poems. However, it's also used to describe modern movies and books that have a similar grand scale. The key is the combination of length, heroic characters, and important events.
- In books: Many famous books are considered epics. These are often very thick books, or a series of books, that tell a complex story over a long stretch of time. They might follow a hero's journey, a war, or the founding of a nation.
- In poems: Historically, many of the first epic stories were long poems. These poems were often sung or recited and told tales of gods, mythical creatures, and legendary heroes.
- In movies: Today, when a movie is called "epic," it usually means it has a huge budget, a massive cast, impressive special effects, and a story that feels very grand and important. These movies often take you on a journey through different lands and times.
It's important to note that while "epic" always implies something big and significant, the context can help you understand exactly what kind of story is being discussed.
Homer's The Odyssey is a classic epic poem about a hero's long journey home.
In this example, "epic" clearly refers to a long poem with a heroic character and a significant journey. Understanding this word helps you grasp the scale and importance of the story being described. It's a word that conveys a sense of grandeur and historical or mythical significance.
The director wanted to create an epic movie that would transport audiences to ancient Rome.
Here, "epic" tells us that the movie will be grand in scale, likely showing many aspects of ancient Rome and telling a big, important story within that setting. It suggests a long viewing experience with a rich narrative.
Exemples par niveau
''Star Wars'' is an epic movie.
''Star Wars'' is a very long and exciting movie.
The ''Odyssey'' is an epic poem.
The ''Odyssey'' is a long poem about heroes.
The movie was an epic tale of adventure.
The movie was a long story with many adventures.
He wrote an epic book about a brave knight.
He wrote a very long book about a brave knight.
That was an epic journey, very long and exciting.
The journey was a very long and exciting one.
The story of the hero was an epic.
The story of the hero was a long and important one.
We watched an epic film about ancient Rome.
We watched a long film about old Rome.
The children heard an epic story about dragons.
The children heard a very long story about dragons.
The Odyssey is an ancient Greek epic about a hero's journey home.
Odyssey is a very old Greek story about a hero going back home.
Here, 'epic' refers to a famous long poem.
My favorite movie is a space epic with amazing special effects.
I really like a long space movie that looks fantastic.
'Space epic' describes a long movie set in space.
He wrote a fantasy epic with many magical creatures and battles.
He created a very long fantasy story with magic animals and fights.
This 'epic' is a long fantasy book.
The story of the king's life was a true epic.
The tale of the king's life was a grand, important story.
Here, 'epic' means a grand and significant story.
We watched an epic about knights and dragons last night.
Yesterday evening, we saw a long story about brave knights and dragons.
This 'epic' refers to a movie or show.
This book is an epic of survival against the cold mountains.
This book tells a big story of staying alive in the icy mountains.
Here, 'epic' describes a long, challenging story of survival.
Many cultures have an epic that tells about their origins.
Many groups of people have a big story that talks about how they started.
This 'epic' refers to a foundational story or myth.
The new historical drama is a TV epic with a huge cast.
The fresh historical show is a very long TV series with many actors.
'TV epic' means a long and large-scale television series.
Homer's 'The Odyssey' is a classic epic that recounts Odysseus's arduous journey home after the Trojan War.
Homer's 'The Odyssey' is a classic long poem that recounts Odysseus's difficult journey home after the Trojan War.
Here, 'epic' functions as a noun, referring to a specific type of literary work.
The film 'Lawrence of Arabia' is considered an epic due to its grand scale, historical scope, and extensive runtime.
The film 'Lawrence of Arabia' is considered a long, grand movie due to its grand scale, historical scope, and extensive runtime.
Used as a noun, 'epic' describes a movie with a sweeping narrative.
Many ancient cultures have their own national epics that tell the stories of their origins and legendary heroes.
Many ancient cultures have their own national long stories that tell the stories of their origins and legendary heroes.
The plural 'epics' refers to multiple works of this genre.
He spent years writing a sprawling fantasy epic, hoping it would be his masterpiece.
He spent years writing a sprawling fantasy long story, hoping it would be his masterpiece.
Used as a noun, 'epic' is modified by the adjective 'fantasy' to specify the genre.
The 'Mahabharata' is one of the longest epics in world literature, with a rich tapestry of philosophical and moral teachings.
The 'Mahabharata' is one of the longest long stories in world literature, with a rich tapestry of philosophical and moral teachings.
Here, 'epics' is part of a superlative phrase, indicating its prominent status.
Despite its length, the medieval epic poem captivated readers with its tales of chivalry and adventure.
Despite its length, the medieval long poem captivated readers with its tales of chivalry and adventure.
Used as a noun, 'epic' is qualified by 'medieval' to specify the period.
The director envisioned his latest project as a historical epic, requiring extensive research and elaborate sets.
The director envisioned his latest project as a historical long movie, requiring extensive research and elaborate sets.
As a noun, 'epic' is modified by 'historical' to indicate the subject matter.
The 'Epic of Gilgamesh' is one of the earliest surviving works of literature, offering insights into ancient Mesopotamian beliefs.
The 'Long Story of Gilgamesh' is one of the earliest surviving works of literature, offering insights into ancient Mesopotamian beliefs.
Used as a noun, 'epic' is part of a proper noun, referring to a specific ancient text.
Synonymes
Antonymes
Expressions idiomatiques
"an epic journey"
A very long, difficult, and exciting journey.
Their trip across the continent was truly an epic journey.
neutral"an epic fail"
A spectacular and complete failure; a total disaster.
He tried to bake a cake for the first time, and it was an epic fail.
informal"of epic proportions"
Extremely large or great in extent; on a massive scale.
The clean-up after the storm was a task of epic proportions.
neutral"an epic battle"
A very long and intense struggle or conflict.
The final game of the series was an epic battle between the two teams.
neutral"an epic saga"
A very long and complicated story, often involving many generations or events.
The family history was an epic saga of triumphs and tragedies.
neutral"an epic tale"
A long and impressive story, often about heroic deeds.
Grandpa used to tell us epic tales of his adventures as a young man.
neutral"an epic moment"
A very significant, memorable, or important moment.
Scoring the winning goal in the final minute was an epic moment for the team.
informal"an epic undertaking"
A very large, difficult, or ambitious project or task.
Building the new bridge was an epic undertaking that took years to complete.
neutral"an epic struggle"
A very intense and prolonged effort to achieve something difficult.
His recovery from the injury was an epic struggle.
neutral"an epic win"
A significant and impressive victory or success.
After months of hard work, getting the promotion felt like an epic win.
informalComment l'utiliser
An epic can be a **noun** or an **adjective**. As a noun, it refers to a long narrative, like 'Homer's Iliad is a famous epic.' As an adjective, it describes something grand or heroic, for example, 'The movie had an epic battle scene.'
A common mistake is confusing 'epic' with 'epoch'. An **epic** refers to a long narrative or something grand, while an **epoch** refers to a significant period of time or a historical era. For instance, 'The discovery of electricity marked a new epoch in human history' (not 'epic').
Teste-toi 48 questions
Imagine you are writing a story about a hero. Describe one brave act your hero performs. Use at least 3 sentences.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
My hero, Captain Nova, bravely saved the small village from the giant monster. She used her super strength to push the monster back. Everyone cheered for her courage.
Think about your favorite long story (book, movie, or poem). What makes it an 'epic' story? Write 2-3 sentences.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
My favorite epic movie is 'Lord of the Rings' because it tells a very long story about heroes saving their world. There are many adventures and big events. It feels very grand.
Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) describing a fictional 'epic journey' someone might take. What challenges do they face?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Elara began her epic journey to find the lost city of gold. She had to cross dangerous mountains and vast deserts. Along the way, she met strange creatures and solved many riddles.
What kind of story is 'The Odyssey'?
Read this passage:
The ancient Greek poem, 'The Odyssey,' is considered an epic. It tells the story of the hero Odysseus's long and difficult journey home after the Trojan War. He faces many challenges, including monsters and gods, over ten years.
What kind of story is 'The Odyssey'?
The passage clearly states 'The ancient Greek poem, 'The Odyssey,' is considered an epic.'
The passage clearly states 'The ancient Greek poem, 'The Odyssey,' is considered an epic.'
What do epic stories often teach us?
Read this passage:
Many cultures have their own epic stories. These stories often feature important historical events or mythological figures. They teach us about the values and beliefs of the people who created them. These tales can be very old.
What do epic stories often teach us?
The passage says, 'They teach us about the values and beliefs of the people who created them.'
The passage says, 'They teach us about the values and beliefs of the people who created them.'
What is a common feature of an epic movie?
Read this passage:
An epic movie often has a grand scale, with many characters and a plot that spans a long time. It usually includes battles, adventures, and a hero who must overcome great obstacles. 'Star Wars' is a famous example of an epic movie series.
What is a common feature of an epic movie?
The passage states, 'An epic movie often has a grand scale, with many characters and a plot that spans a long time. It usually includes battles, adventures, and a hero who must overcome great obstacles.'
The passage states, 'An epic movie often has a grand scale, with many characters and a plot that spans a long time. It usually includes battles, adventures, and a hero who must overcome great obstacles.'
Which of the following would best be described as an epic?
An epic typically involves a long narrative, heroes, great events, and often spans a considerable period, making a lengthy hero's journey film the best fit.
What is a key characteristic of an epic?
Epics are defined by their grand scale, focusing on heroic figures and events that hold great importance, rather than being short, mundane, or strictly comedic.
Which ancient Greek literary work is considered a classic example of an epic?
The Odyssey is a prime example of an epic poem, known for its length, heroic protagonist (Odysseus), and adventurous narrative.
An epic story usually involves a short period of time and few adventures.
By definition, an epic usually covers a long period of time and many adventures, not a short period with few adventures.
The main characters in an epic are often ordinary people without special abilities.
Epics typically feature heroes or characters with extraordinary qualities who undertake great feats, not ordinary people.
A historical novel covering several generations of a family during wartime could be considered an epic.
A long narrative spanning generations, involving significant events like wartime, and featuring heroic or central figures, aligns well with the definition of an epic.
This sentence correctly uses 'epic' as an adjective describing the tale.
This sentence uses 'epics' as a plural noun referring to long narrative works.
Here, 'epic' is used as an adjective to describe the large scale of the movie production.
Imagine you are a film critic. Write a short review (around 100-150 words) of a recent movie that could be described as an 'epic'. Discuss what elements make it epic and whether it succeeds in its grand ambitions.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The recent historical drama 'The Last Stand of the Samurai' is a true epic in every sense of the word. Its sprawling narrative, covering decades of political upheaval and personal sacrifice, is truly breathtaking. The film meticulously crafts its characters, transforming them into heroic figures caught in monumental events. While some might argue its length is excessive, the sheer scope and ambition of this cinematic undertaking are undeniable. The director masterfully balances intimate character moments with sweeping battle sequences, making it a compelling and memorable experience. It certainly lives up to its 'epic' designation.
You are applying for a creative writing course. In your application, you need to describe a concept for an 'epic' story you would like to write. Outline the main characters, the central conflict, and the overall timeframe of your proposed epic. (Minimum 150 words)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
My proposed epic, 'The Chronicles of Aethelgard', aims to span three generations of a noble family caught in a millennia-long conflict between ancient magical factions. The central protagonist, Elara, is a young scholar who unearths a forgotten prophecy foretelling the end of her world. Her journey will see her traverse vast, diverse landscapes, from the icy peaks of the Dragon's Tooth mountains to the sun-drenched deserts of the Serpent King. The main conflict stems from the resurgence of the Shadow Weavers, a malevolent force seeking to plunge Aethelgard into eternal twilight. Elara, alongside a diverse cast of allies including a grizzled warrior, a witty rogue, and a wise elder, must unite the fractured kingdoms and decipher the prophecy before it's too late. The story will delve into themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope against insurmountable odds, making it a truly epic undertaking.
Write a descriptive paragraph (approximately 75-100 words) about a fictional scene that would clearly be part of an 'epic' story. Focus on imagery and atmosphere to convey the grandeur and scale.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The ancient city of Xylos, carved into the sheer face of Mount Cinder, loomed like a colossal titan against the bruised twilight sky. Its towering spires, tipped with glowing ether-crystals, pierced the clouds, while colossal bridges of obsidian spanned chasms thousands of feet deep. Below, the River of Whispers snaked through the valley, reflecting the myriad stars that seemed to cluster around the city in adoration. This was the heart of an empire, a testament to an age of heroes and forgotten gods, a place where legends were forged and destinies unfolded with breathtaking, epic scope.
What is the main reason 'The Odyssey' is considered an 'epic'?
Read this passage:
Homer's 'The Odyssey' is considered one of the foundational works of Western literature. It tells the epic story of the hero Odysseus's long and arduous journey home after the Trojan War. Facing mythical creatures, divine interventions, and treacherous seas, his decade-long voyage is a testament to perseverance and cunning. The poem explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the human condition against a backdrop of grand, heroic events.
What is the main reason 'The Odyssey' is considered an 'epic'?
The passage states that 'The Odyssey' tells the 'epic story of the hero Odysseus's long and arduous journey home... Facing mythical creatures, divine interventions, and treacherous seas, his decade-long voyage is a testament to perseverance and cunning.' This directly aligns with the definition of an epic as a long story about heroes and great events over a long period.
The passage states that 'The Odyssey' tells the 'epic story of the hero Odysseus's long and arduous journey home... Facing mythical creatures, divine interventions, and treacherous seas, his decade-long voyage is a testament to perseverance and cunning.' This directly aligns with the definition of an epic as a long story about heroes and great events over a long period.
According to the passage, what is a key characteristic of epic fantasy novels?
Read this passage:
Many classic fantasy novels, such as J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings', are often described as epic. These stories typically involve vast, richly detailed worlds, a large cast of characters, and a central conflict of immense importance that affects the fate of entire civilizations. The journey of the protagonists often takes them across immense distances, encountering various cultures and facing numerous trials. This scale and the profound consequences of their actions are key characteristics.
According to the passage, what is a key characteristic of epic fantasy novels?
The passage clearly states that epic fantasy novels 'typically involve vast, richly detailed worlds, a large cast of characters, and a central conflict of immense importance'.
The passage clearly states that epic fantasy novels 'typically involve vast, richly detailed worlds, a large cast of characters, and a central conflict of immense importance'.
What commonality exists between ancient and modern epics, according to the text?
Read this passage:
While ancient epics like 'Beowulf' and 'Gilgamesh' originated in oral traditions, modern epics often take the form of lengthy novels or film series. What connects them across centuries is their ambitious scope – they aim to tell a story that transcends individual lives and delves into themes of universal significance, often exploring the rise and fall of civilizations, the nature of heroism, and the struggle between good and evil. The term 'epic' implies a grand scale not just in length, but in thematic depth and emotional resonance.
What commonality exists between ancient and modern epics, according to the text?
The passage states, 'What connects them across centuries is their ambitious scope – they aim to tell a story that transcends individual lives and delves into themes of universal significance'.
The passage states, 'What connects them across centuries is their ambitious scope – they aim to tell a story that transcends individual lives and delves into themes of universal significance'.
This is the correct grammatical order for the phrase.
This arrangement forms a grammatically correct and coherent sentence.
This order creates a meaningful and grammatically correct sentence.
Listen for the names of famous epic poems.
Consider the characteristics of an epic that influence modern works.
What aspects are crucial for understanding an epic?
Read this aloud:
Describe a film or book you consider to be an epic, and explain why it fits that description.
Focus: epic, description, narrative
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
Discuss the enduring appeal of epic stories across different cultures and historical periods.
Focus: enduring, appeal, cultural, historical
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
Imagine you are explaining the concept of an 'epic' to someone unfamiliar with the term. What key characteristics would you highlight?
Focus: concept, unfamiliar, characteristics, highlight
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
This sentence describes 'The Odyssey' as an epic poem and mentions its subject.
This sentence discusses the universality of epic narratives across different cultures.
This sentence uses 'epic' to describe the grand scale and visual style of a film.
The 'Iliad' by Homer is considered a foundational work of Western literature due to its __________ scope and vivid depiction of the Trojan War.
The 'Iliad' fits the definition of an epic as a long poem about heroes and great events, hence 'epic' is the most appropriate descriptor.
Which of the following narratives would most accurately be described as an 'epic'?
An epic typically involves a long period of time, grand events, and often mythological or heroic figures, making the sweeping saga the best fit.
Despite its modern cinematic adaptations, the original 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy is widely regarded as a fantasy __________ due to its extensive world-building, intricate plot, and heroic archetypes.
The 'Lord of the Rings' fits the definition of an epic due to its length, scope, heroic narrative, and grand events, particularly in its literary form.
A short, humorous anecdote about a pet's antics would typically be classified as an 'epic'.
An epic is characterized by its long length, heroic themes, and grand scope, whereas an anecdote is a brief, often personal story.
The characteristic scope of an 'epic' often involves covering a significant span of time and multiple intertwined adventures.
This statement aligns precisely with the definition of an epic, which typically encompasses a long period and numerous adventures involving heroes.
For a narrative to be considered an 'epic', it must solely focus on everyday life and mundane events.
Epics are typically defined by their focus on heroes, great events, and often mythological or grand themes, not mundane daily life.
/ 48 correct
Perfect score!
Exemple
This is an example with epic.
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Expressions liées
Plus de mots sur Entertainment
entertainment
B1Entertainment refers to activities, performances, or events designed to provide amusement, enjoyment, or relaxation to an audience. It encompasses a wide range of forms, including movies, music, theater, sports, and digital games.
animation
C1L'art de créer des images en mouvement, ou la qualité d'être plein de vie et d'énergie.
brainteaser
B2C'est un type d'énigme ou de problème qui demande une pensée créative et non conventionnelle pour être résolu. Il défie la logique.
unsolist
C1A term used to describe a performer or professional who functions exclusively within a group or ensemble rather than as a solo entity. It emphasizes the role of the individual as a constituent part of a collective whole, prioritizing group cohesion over individual recognition.
play
A1S'engager dans une activité pour le plaisir et les loisirs plutôt que pour un but sérieux ou pratique. Il est également utilisé pour décrire la participation à un sport ou l'interprétation de musique sur un instrument.
applause
C2Les applaudissements sont des acclamations ou des louanges pour une bonne performance.
blockbuster
B2Un blockbuster est un livre, un film ou un produit extrêmement populaire et qui connaît un grand succès commercial.
boogie
B2Cela signifie danser avec énergie sur de la musique pop ou rock. Familier, cela peut aussi vouloir dire partir rapidement d'un endroit.
bravura
B2A display of great technical skill and brilliance in a performance or style. It describes something done with great confidence and spirit, often intended to impress an audience.
brushwork
B2C'est la manière dont un artiste utilise son pinceau pour appliquer la peinture, créant des textures et des marques visibles.
