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REFERENCE

storyline

n.
US //ˈstɔɹiˌɫaɪn// UK //stˈɔːɹɪlˌaɪn// sto·ry·line
  1. 1 plot of a story (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Theatre

    the series of events that make up the plot of a book, movie, or play.

    the narrative arc or plot of a creative work, often involving the development of characters and conflict.

    Example

    The movie had great acting, but the storyline was a bit confusing.

    Example

    Critics praised the novel for its intricate storyline, which successfully balanced three separate timelines without losing the reader's interest.
  2. 2 technical scenario (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic Technical Science

    a description of how a situation might develop in the future, often used in science or business.

    a narrative description of a specific modelling scenario used to explain technical or socioeconomic drivers in research.

    Example

    The scientists created a storyline to show how the climate might change by 2050.

    Example

    The report outlines a storyline in which rapid technological adoption significantly offsets the projected increase in carbon emissions.
Origin

From story + line. The climate science usage is defined in the IPCC WG III AR5 report (2014).

Word family

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