Reprise

A reprise is a return to or repetition of something. This can be a musical passage, a dramatic scene, a theme, or even an action or activity. It often signifies a revisiting of a previous element, usually with a slightly different emphasis or context. The purpose can be to reinforce an idea, provide a callback for thematic consistency, or evoke a particular emotion or memory. It can also refer to the act of claiming back something seized or taken away, as in a property or an opportunity.

Reprise meaning with examples

• The composer cleverly used a reprise of the main melody in the final movement, creating a sense of closure and bringing the whole symphony together. The audience recognised the familiar tune and were delighted. The melodic line reappeared transformed to build a bridge through the final movements.
• The play's final act featured a reprise of a key scene from the beginning, but this time presented from the antagonist's perspective, adding layers to his motivation. It gave an excellent insight into his character and the reason behind his behaviours. This brought a chilling twist to an earlier event.
• After a brief hiatus, the company decided on a reprise of their highly successful marketing campaign, hoping to capitalize on its previous effectiveness. They felt that the original campaign had strong brand association and high conversion rates. This strategy allowed them to build on past successes.
• Despite losing the election, the politician announced a reprise of his commitment to fighting for better schools, stating that his principles remained unchanged. He felt that his beliefs were still fundamental. This reinforced his credibility and highlighted a strong value for his supporters.