Prose is ordinary written or spoken language that is not arranged in the special patterns of poetry.
From Latin *prosa (oratio)* 'straightforward (speech)', from *prorsus* 'direct, straight on'. It contrasted with the more patterned and musical style of verse.
Prose is literally 'straightforward speech'—language that walks in a line instead of dancing. That’s why we call everyday writing prose, even when it’s beautiful: it moves straight ahead rather than in strict rhythms or rhymes.
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