panorama: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal to Neutral
Quick answer
What does “panorama” mean?
a wide, unbroken view of a surrounding area, or a comprehensive presentation of a subject.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
a wide, unbroken view of a surrounding area, or a comprehensive presentation of a subject.
Also refers to a picture or photograph containing a wide view, a continuous passing scene (as in a film), or a broad mental view of a series of events or a subject.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is largely identical, though UK English may slightly more frequently use 'panoramic' as an adjective in descriptive writing.
Connotations
Both share connotations of grandeur, completeness, and visual spectacle.
Frequency
Similar frequency in both varieties; common in travel, photography, art, and descriptive contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “panorama” in a Sentence
panorama of + [PLACE/SUBJECT] (a panorama of the valley)panorama from + [LOCATION] (the panorama from the summit)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “panorama” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The panorama from the Shard is utterly breathtaking, encompassing the whole of London.
- The documentary presented a fascinating panorama of post-war British life.
American English
- The panorama from the Empire State Building observation deck is iconic.
- Her lecture gave us a sweeping panorama of the American civil rights movement.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used figuratively: 'The report provides a panorama of the current market trends.'
Academic
Common in history, geography, and art history: 'The book paints a panorama of 18th-century society.'
Everyday
Primarily in travel and photography contexts: 'We hiked to the top for the panorama.'
Technical
In photography/film: 'The camera panned to capture a full panorama.'
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “panorama”
- Using 'panorama' to describe a normal, limited view (e.g., 'the panorama from my window' if the window is small).
- Misspelling as 'panaorama' or 'panaroma'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'View' is the general term. 'Vista' suggests a pleasing view, often seen through a frame like trees or an avenue. 'Panorama' emphasizes an extensive, wide, and often impressive view with little obstruction.
Yes, figuratively. It is common to speak of 'a panorama of history' or 'a panorama of emotions,' meaning a broad and comprehensive representation.
It is neutral to formal. It is perfectly acceptable in everyday conversation about views, but its figurative use is more common in formal or written contexts.
'Panoramic' (e.g., panoramic windows, a panoramic view).
a wide, unbroken view of a surrounding area, or a comprehensive presentation of a subject.
Panorama: in British English it is pronounced /ˌpæn.əˈrɑː.mə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌpæn.əˈræm.ə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A panorama of life/events/history (a broad representation)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
PANorama – think of a PAN (a wide cooking vessel) giving you a WIDE view of everything inside it.
Conceptual Metaphor
UNDERSTANDING IS SEEING / A SUBJECT IS A LANDSCAPE (e.g., 'a panorama of human emotions').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'panorama' LEAST likely to be used appropriately?