deus ex machina
Say it: DAY-us ex MAK-ih-nuh /ˌdeɪəs ɛks ˈmækɪnə/ · noun phrase
What “deus ex machina” means
An unlikely event that suddenly solves a story's hopeless problem.
More precisely: An unlikely, convenient event that suddenly solves a seemingly hopeless problem in a plot.
When to use it
Usually critically, when a story escapes a difficult problem through a convenient surprise that feels unearned.
Memory trick
Latin for god from the machine: theatre cranes once lowered gods onto the stage.
Similar words
contrivance, plot device, convenient rescue
Where it comes from
Latin 'god from the machine', after gods lowered onstage by crane in Greek theatre.
Quick check
A trapped explorer is suddenly rescued by an unknown wizard who never appeared earlier. What kind of plot solution is this?
deus ex machina or foreshadowing?
Show the answer
deus ex machina
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