Belletristic: meaning, definitions and examples
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belletristic
[ bɛləˈtrɪstɪk ]
literary context
Belletristic refers to literature that is specifically written for aesthetic enjoyment rather than for informational or educational purposes. This term typically encompasses works that are characterized by artistic style and emotional depth, such as novels, short stories, and poetry. Belletristic works often prioritize creativity, expression, and the beauty of language over strict adherence to factual accuracy or instructional content.
Synonyms
artistic, fictional, literary.
Examples of usage
- The author's belletristic prose captivated readers.
- She prefers belletristic novels that evoke strong emotions.
- His writing style is distinctly belletristic and lyrical.
Translations
Translations of the word "belletristic" in other languages:
🇵🇹 belletrística
🇮🇳 साहित्यिक
🇩🇪 Schönschrift
🇮🇩 belletristik
🇺🇦 белетристика
🇵🇱 beletrystyka
🇯🇵 ベルエトリスティック
🇫🇷 belletristique
🇪🇸 belletrística
🇹🇷 belletristik
🇰🇷 벨레트리즘
🇸🇦 الأدب الجميل
🇨🇿 belletristika
🇸🇰 beletristika
🇨🇳 美学文学
🇸🇮 beletristika
🇮🇸 belletristik
🇰🇿 беллетристика
🇬🇪 ბელეტრისტიკა
🇦🇿 belletristika
🇲🇽 belletrística
Etymology
The term 'belletristic' is derived from the French word 'belles lettres', which translates to 'beautiful letters'. This term has been used since the 18th century to describe a category of literature that emphasizes artistic merit. The French phrase itself combines 'belle', meaning beautiful, and 'lettres', meaning letters or literature. In English, the term began to gain traction during the early 19th century as literary critics sought to differentiate between literature that provided pure aesthetic pleasure and other forms that were more utilitarian, such as journalism or essay writing. Over time, 'belletristic' has come to be specifically associated with writings that prioritize style, emotional resonance, and aesthetic qualities over practical or didactic content, solidifying its place in literary discussions.