Word
stylistic
Phoneticsstylis·tic
US/staɪˈɫɪstɪk/
UK/staɪlˈɪstɪk/
Definition
adj. relating to the way something is written, designed, or performed rather than what it is about. You use it to talk about the specific choices an artist or writer makes.
adj. relating to the particular methods, techniques, or aesthetic choices that characterise a work of art, literature, or design. Often used to distinguish the manner of expression from the underlying content.
Examples
“The author made several stylistic changes to the final chapter.”
“The director's latest film features many stylistic choices that pay tribute to classic cinema from the 1950s.”
“While the plot remains conventional, the novel's stylistic innovations in perspective and pacing have earned it significant critical acclaim from literary scholars.”
Examples
simple
“The author made several stylistic changes to the final chapter.”
contextual
“The director's latest film features many stylistic choices that pay tribute to classic cinema from the 1950s.”
complex
“While the plot remains conventional, the novel's stylistic innovations in perspective and pacing have earned it significant critical acclaim from literary scholars.”
Usage
Typically used attributively before a noun; often paired with 'choices', 'elements', or 'flair'.
Real-World Examples
“In many ways, Thrasher is a stylistic follow-up to the Killers’ maudlin 2021 Pressure Machine, which saw Flowers explore windswept balladry and tasteful story-songs.” “And there’s palpable glee in the album’s sudden stylistic shifts.” Etymology
From style + -istic.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/stylistic