Synonyms of prologue

prologue

noun

ˈprō-ˌlȯg 

variants also prolog

1

as in prelude

a performance, activity, or event that precedes and sets the stage for the main event

unfortunately, the burglary, which he committed while still a teen, was but a prologue to a wasted life of crime

Synonyms & Similar Words

• prelude
• preliminary
• overture
• preamble
• curtain-raiser
• warm-up
• lead-in
• countdown
• start
• kickoff
• run-up

2

as in introduction

a short section (as of a book) that leads to or explains the main part

a brief prologue sets the scene for the story that follows

Synonyms & Similar Words

• introduction
• preface
• foreword
• intro
• prelude
• preamble
• exordium
• proem
• beginning
• prolusion
• start
• initiation
• outset
• commencement
• opening
• origin
• origination

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• epilogue
• postscript
• aftermath
• end
• conclusion
• closing
• finale
• finish
• termination
• close
• envoi
• stop
• cessation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of prologue

Crosland’s interpretation begins with a prologue showing the origin of Don Juan’s romantic cynicism, followed by an epic tale of lust, love, and deceit. — Air Mail, 8 Aug. 2026

The horrid digital-botox prologue feels like an explosion at the Unnecessary Cameo Factory. — Ew Staff, Entertainment Weekly, 3 Aug. 2026

The off day also offers a chance to reset and review the first three practices, which served as a prologue for what’s to come this week. — Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 2 Aug. 2026

Unfortunately, a prologue has already alerted us to the fact that a wild animal being trafficked has escaped its cage and vehicle, fleeing into the same woods Irina’s chauffeur now drives through. — Dennis Harvey, Variety, 30 July 2026