scene
17 synonyms and 0 antonyms for scene, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The place where something happens, especially something notable or newsworthy.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use scene
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin scaena, "stage," from Greek skēnē — originally the backdrop structure behind ancient Greek performers.
Full origin of scene →Frequently asked questions
What does “scene” mean?
The word “scene” means the place where something happens, especially something notable or newsworthy. In plain terms, a place where something happens, a segment of a story, a social subculture, or a public outburst.
How do you pronounce “scene”?
“Scene” is pronounced seen (/siːn/ in IPA).
How do you use “scene” in a sentence?
Here is “scene” used in a sentence: “Police cordoned off the scene of the accident.”
What part of speech is “scene”?
“Scene” is a noun.
Where does the word “scene” come from?
The word “scene” comes from Ancient Greek. From Latin scaena, "stage," from Greek skēnē — originally the backdrop structure behind ancient Greek performers.
Is “scene” a common word?
“Scene” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “scene” have?
“Scene” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the place where something happens, especially something notable or newsworthy.
What is the difference between a scene and a site?
Both name a place, but a scene is where a notable event happens or has just happened: the scene of a crime, an accident, or a rescue. A site is a more neutral location, such as a building site or historic site, defined by what is there rather than by a dramatic event.
What does 'the scene of the crime' mean?
It refers to the exact place where a crime occurred, where police gather evidence and speak to witnesses. More broadly, 'the scene' is used for any spot where something significant unfolds, which is why reporters and emergency crews are said to be 'first on the scene' or to 'arrive at the scene'.
What is an example of a scene?
Common examples include the scene of an accident where ambulances gather, a crime scene sealed off by police, or the scene of a fire that crews rush to. In each case, 'scene' marks the place where a notable or newsworthy event is happening or has just taken place.