threequel: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal
Quick answer
What does “threequel” mean?
The third film, book, or other work in a series.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The third film, book, or other work in a series; a sequel to a sequel.
Any third installment in a sequence of related creative works, following a 'sequel' and the original work. The term is often used in the entertainment industry for films, video games, or book series.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The term is equally understood and used in both varieties.
Connotations
Informal, often used somewhat playfully or ironically. It can imply the series is becoming formulaic or is being extended for commercial reasons.
Frequency
Rare in formal writing but occasionally seen in entertainment journalism and fan discourse in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “threequel” in a Sentence
The [Franchise Name] threequelthe threequel to [Title]a threequel is in developmentVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “threequel” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The threequel film has finally been announced.
- They are developing a threequel project.
American English
- The threequel movie is coming out next summer.
- They confirmed a threequel installment.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in entertainment industry reports and marketing materials to denote a product launch.
Academic
Rare; might appear in media or cultural studies discussing film series.
Everyday
Used by fans discussing movies, games, or book series.
Technical
Not a technical term; informal label in entertainment criticism and journalism.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “threequel”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “threequel”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “threequel”
- Spelling: 'threequal' (incorrect). Using it in formal writing where 'third installment' is preferred. Using it for a fourth work (that would be a 'quadrilogy' or 'fourth installment').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is an informal but established portmanteau word (three + sequel) found in modern dictionaries, used primarily in entertainment contexts.
A fourth installment is sometimes informally called a 'quadquel' or, more commonly, just a 'fourth film/installment'. The established term for a series of four works is a 'tetralogy' or 'quadrilogy'.
Yes, while most common for films, the term can be applied to any narrative series (book trilogies, video game franchises) to refer to the third installment.
No, it is informal. In formal writing, use 'third installment', 'third film in the series', or 'third sequel'.
The third film, book, or other work in a series.
Threequel: in British English it is pronounced /ˈθriːkwəl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈθriːkwəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'THREE' + se'QUEL' = THREEQUEL (the third one in the sequence).
Conceptual Metaphor
A SEQUENCE IS A JOURNEY (the third leg of the journey).
Practice
Quiz
What does the term 'threequel' specifically refer to?