What does peripeteia mean?
A peripeteia is a sudden, striking change in circumstances, especially one that reverses someone’s fortunes or transforms the course of events. The word is often used in literary criticism, history, and political commentary to describe a major turn or unexpected reversal. It carries a dramatic and somewhat elevated tone, suggesting more consequence than an ordinary change. A peripeteia may be fortunate or unfortunate, but it usually implies a clear alteration in direction, such as a sudden recovery after decline or a collapse after apparent success. Because the term comes from the language of drama, it can also describe the kind of plot twist in which a narrative suddenly turns in an unexpected direction. In general usage, simpler words such as “reversal,” “turnabout,” or “upheaval” are more accessible.
nounA sudden and often dramatic change in circumstances, especially one that reverses a person's fortunes or alters the direction of events.
- A sudden and often dramatic change in circumstances, especially a reversal of fortune or direction.
"The election was a major peripeteia, transforming the campaign overnight."
"The company experienced a sudden peripeteia when its chief executive unexpectedly resigned."
"Historical novels often build toward a dramatic peripeteia that changes the protagonist's life."
The standard plural is peripeteias, with the ending pronounced /z/.
"The memoir recounts the peripeteias that transformed the author's life."
A peripeteia is the plot's sudden turn: the moment everything changes direction.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How peripeteia is actually used
This is a formal and literary term. It is less common in everyday speech, where “change,” “reversal,” or “turnabout” are usually preferred.
Easily confused with peripeteia
A peripeteia is a sudden reversal or change in circumstances, whereas something peripatetic moves from place to place.