cliff
han
ger
Plural
cliffhangers
1
an ending to an episode of a series that keeps the audience in suspense
A cliffhanger is a storytelling technique used to create suspense or excitement by ending a scene, chapter, or episode at a crucial moment of tension or uncertainty. This unresolved ending leaves the audience eager to find out what happens next. For example, if a character is about to face a dangerous situation and the story ends abruptly, it is a cliffhanger. This technique keeps readers or viewers engaged and motivated to continue with the story to discover the outcome.
- The season finale ended on a thrilling cliffhanger, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats and eagerly anticipating the next episode.
- The novel's final chapter concluded with a gripping cliffhanger, compelling readers to turn the page and discover the resolution of the suspenseful plot twist.
- The movie's cliffhanger ending left audiences clamoring for a sequel, eager to see how the story would unfold and the characters' fates resolved.
- Each episode of the television series ended with a cliffhanger, keeping viewers engaged and invested in the ongoing narrative arc.
- As the tension reached its peak, the protagonist found themselves in a perilous situation, setting the stage for a nail-biting cliffhanger that would keep readers guessing until the next installment.
2
a competition in which the result remains undecided until the very last moment
- The soccer match was a cliffhanger, with the winning goal scored in the final minute.
- Fans cheered throughout the cliffhanger tennis match, unsure who would win.
- The championship boxing match turned into a cliffhanger as neither fighter gave way.
- The election vote count created a cliffhanger between the two leading candidates.
- The track race was a cliffhanger, decided by a photo finish.