mise-en-scène

1
as in decor
the array of painted backgrounds and furnishings used to establish the setting in a stage production an era in which the mise-en-scène of Broadway musicals became ever more spectacular

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in atmosphere
the circumstances, conditions, or objects by which one is surrounded the movie captures the mise-en-scène of strife and desperation in a country torn apart by civil war

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word mise-en-scène distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of mise-en-scène are background, environment, milieu, and setting. While all these words mean "the place, time, and circumstances in which something occurs," mise-en-scène strongly suggests the use of properties to achieve a particular atmosphere or theatrical effect.

a gothic thriller with a carefully crafted mise-en-scène

When could background be used to replace mise-en-scène?

The synonyms background and mise-en-scène are sometimes interchangeable, but background often refers to the circumstances or events that precede a phenomenon or development.

the shocking decision was part of the background of the riots

When can environment be used instead of mise-en-scène?

The words environment and mise-en-scène are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, environment applies to all the external factors that have a formative influence on one's physical, mental, or moral development.

the kind of environment that produces juvenile delinquents

In what contexts can milieu take the place of mise-en-scène?

While in some cases nearly identical to mise-en-scène, milieu applies especially to the physical and social surroundings of a person or group of persons.

an intellectual milieu conducive to artistic experimentation

When might setting be a better fit than mise-en-scène?

Although the words setting and mise-en-scène have much in common, setting suggests looking at real-life situations in literary or dramatic terms.

a militant reformer who was born into an unlikely social setting

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of mise-en-scène The mise-en-scene towards the end feels clumsy, even a bit limp, and the plotting becomes forced. Ritesh Mehta, IndieWire, 15 Feb. 2025 The mise-en-scene towards the end feels clumsy, even a bit limp, and the plotting becomes forced. Ritesh Mehta, IndieWire, 15 Feb. 2025 The back and forth feels distracting rather than revealing at times, a showy move that feels out of step with the overall mise-en-scene. Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 8 Sep. 2024 Andersson’s mise-en-scene owes some obvious debts to the likes of Tati and Fellini, but his tragicomic deadpan remains entirely his own. Indiewire Staff, IndieWire, 12 Aug. 2024 The full mise-en-scene of Biles, Lee, Chiles, Carey, and Rivera wearing their final look beneath a cascade of red, white, and blue confetti communicated a distinct narrative from Minneapolis’ central arena where the games were held. Skylar Mitchell, Essence, 2 July 2024 And last night, between 50th and 49th Street, a festive spectacle took place as Saks Fifth Avenue and Dior unveiled their mesmerizing mise-en-scene window display, Dior’s Carousel of Dreams at Saks. Maia Torres, Vogue, 21 Nov. 2023 But the mise-en-scene suffers inexplicably and lacks resonance with our more recent era. Bonnie Johnson, Los Angeles Times, 16 June 2023 Here, an amusing if chaotic mise-en-scene is what’s at center stage. Peter Marks, Washington Post, 20 Apr. 2023
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mise-en-scène
Noun
  • According to the hotel's team, its design is a nod to Antoni Gaudí’s iconic architecture, channeled in the undulating curves of its banquets and splashy decor.
    Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 28 May 2025
  • The bench also comes with durable, fade-resistant cushions, plus two throw pillows that are great for offering back support and decor.
    Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 28 May 2025
Noun
  • Fans both in person and online noted the electric atmosphere of the concert.
    Caché McClay, USA Today, 25 May 2025
  • It was therefore expected that — even if tentative — the detection of a potential biomarker in the atmosphere of an exoplanet would have extensive coverage.
    Victoria Corless, Space.com, 25 May 2025
Noun
  • Miami-Dade Fire Rescue pronounced the driver, who was not identified, dead at the scene.
    Devoun Cetoute, Miami Herald, 6 June 2025
  • Ruck, for one, isn't surprised that fans were able to narrow down when the scene was shot.
    Virginia Chamlee, People.com, 5 June 2025
Noun
  • Arvind and Fashion for Good are holding onto the hope that despite the economic tumult caused by geopolitical strife and exacerbated by President Donald Trump’s whipsawing tariffs, brands remain committed to their climate targets despite the high investment costs and the less tangible payback.
    Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 3 June 2025
  • Opposition welcomes Wilders’ departure Frans Timmermans, the former European Commission climate chief who now leads the main opposition bloc in parliament, welcomed Wilders’ decision.
    Mike Corder, Los Angeles Times, 3 June 2025
Noun
  • Though the first season of this anthology series shares a similar beachy backdrop as the Cliff House, the second shifts to a snowy mountain resort, which only heightens the suspense.
    Emily Blackwood, People.com, 3 June 2025
  • The eye-catching design has an enduring empire silhouette that makes a statement against busy and bare backdrops alike.
    Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2025
Noun
  • Inside, there are tall, double-height spaces that emphasize the spectacular scenery, while providing shelter from strong winds.
    Kimberley Mok, Travel + Leisure, 26 May 2025
  • The Granddaddy is unmatched in scenery, tradition and vibe.
    Jon Wilner, Mercury News, 23 May 2025
Noun
  • Bey will then return stateside for a final set of shows in Houston, D.C., Atlanta and Las Vegas.
    Stephen Daw, Billboard, 29 May 2025
  • Chelsea complete set: Blues stroll to win in Conference League despite defence changes From the outset, the Conference League presented Chelsea with no insurmountable hurdles.
    Phil Hay, New York Times, 29 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Mise-en-scène.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mise-en-sc%C3%A8ne. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.

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