logline

noun

log·​line ˈlȯg-ˌlīn 

ˈläg-

variants or less commonly log line or log-line

plural loglines also log lines or log-lines

: a simple synopsis of a screenplay, film, novel, etc. that is used for pitching (see pitch entry 3 sense 3c) or promotion

You're not telling a story in a logline. You're presenting the core concept of your script. You don't need to delve into twists, character arcs, and plot. You're simply conveying the core idea—the initial seed from that which the plot, characters, twists, turns, and ensuing conflict grows.

—Ken Miyamoto

The new series "tells the story of one year within the walls of the palace of a modern European regime as it begins to unravel," according to its official logline.

—Charna Flam

There are many formats you can use to write a good logline. (The one I currently use is: "When _____ happens to [your hero], he must do _____ in order to solve his problem.)"

—Linda Venis

[Brad] Pitt himself gave [screenwriter Steve] Conrad producing notes to help push the narrative beyond the surface gimmick. … But in spite of its bankable star and juicy log line, the film never went into production.

—Yohana Desta

Examples of logline in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Both actresses are terrific — bringing depth to the film’s high-concept logline — and Sarandon does arguably have the showier part, as the older woman who doesn’t think this young, fabulous creature is worthy of taking care of her children. —Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 10 Oct. 2025

The logline of the series notes Trevi opens up in raw and insightful moments. —Thania Garcia, Variety, 8 Oct. 2025

Still heartbroken years after the split, Richard wears his anger and pain on his sleeve, but his only goal in life is to keep his daughter safe, per the logline. —Liza Esquibias, PEOPLE, 7 Oct. 2025

Skarsgård was hooked by the logline alone before reading the actual script. —Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

log entry 1 + line entry 1, originally in reference to the line in a TV program log that summarizes the plot of a show

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for logline

• affine
• airline
• align
• aline
• assign
• baseline
• beamline
• benign
• bloodline
• bovine
• byline
• canine