| 释义 |
ˈunderplot
[under-1 6 b and 9.]
1. A (dramatic or literary) plot subordinate to the principal plot, but connected with it.
1668Dryden Dram. Poesy ⁋24 There may be many actions in a play..; but they must all be subservient to the great one, which our language happily expresses in the name of under-plots. 1684T. Burnet Theory Earth i. 146 Such affairs are but the little under-plots in the tragicomedy of the world. 1711Addison Spect. No. 40 ⁋3 The skilful Choice of an Under-Plot. 1779Sheridan Critic ii. ii, I have laid my under-plot in low life. 1847Westm. Rev. XLVII. 62 The greater part of the underplot was by the inferior writer. 1873Symonds Grk. Poets ix. 300 The under-plots of many plays..are not sufficiently subordinated to the main design.
2. An underhand scheme or trick.
1668G. Etherege She wou'd if she cou'd iii. i, We cannot be long without some Underplots in this Town. 1711Addison Spect. No. 170 ⁋12 They still suspect an Under-Plot in every female Action. a1845Hood Lamia vi. 62 Canst swear she is..No cheating underplot—no covert shape, Making a filthy masquerade of nature? |