deus ex machina

Deus ex machina is a literary device where an unexpected, often improbable event or character is introduced to resolve a complicated situation or provide a solution to a problem in a story. The term, which means "god from the machine" in Latin, originates from ancient Greek theater, where actors playing gods would descend on stage to resolve issues. While it can be effective, overusing this device may frustrate audiences, as it can feel contrived or unsatisfying if the resolution seems unearned or lacks proper buildup within the narrative.