Fictional Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fictional
[ˈfɪkʃ(ə)n(ə)l ]
Definitions
literature
relating to or characteristic of fiction, imaginary or invented; not real.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fictional |
Used to describe something that exists only in stories, books, movies, or other forms of fiction. It is often linked to creative works and narratives.
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| imaginary |
Refers to something that exists only in the mind, mental images or fantasies, rather than in reality. Often used for describing fantasies or mental constructs.
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| invented |
Describes something that is fabricated or created, often with a focus on past creation. It can also imply creativity and ingenuity.
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| unreal |
Used to describe something that seems too strange, fantastical, or unbelievable to be real. It may have both positive or negative connotations depending on the context.
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Examples of usage
- Fictional characters like Harry Potter and Sherlock Holmes have become iconic figures in literature.
- The story takes place in a fictional world where magic is real.
- She enjoys reading fictional novels in her free time.
movies
relating to or involving imaginary events or people; not based on real people or events.
Synonyms
fantasy, fictionalized, made-up.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fictional |
Used for describing something invented or imagined, typically used in literature, movies, or stories.
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| made-up |
Used for describing something completely created or fabricated by someone. It often has a lighter, more casual tone.
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| fantasy |
Refers to a genre involving magic, mythical creatures, or other supernatural elements. Often used in literature, movies, and games.
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| fictionalized |
Describes a real event or story that has been altered or embellished for dramatic effect. Often used in movies, books, or articles.
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Examples of usage
- The movie is a fictional account of a historical event.
- Many science fiction movies contain fictional elements like time travel and aliens.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Classic novels such as 'Pride and Prejudice' and 'Moby Dick' feature fictional worlds that reflect societal norms and human behavior.
- The concept of fictional universes allows authors to explore 'what if' scenarios, enhancing reader engagement through imaginative storytelling.
- Fictional characters often embody traits or experiences that resonate with real-life situations, making them relatable.
Pop Culture
- Movies and TV shows often create vast fictional worlds, like Middle-Earth in 'The Lord of the Rings', captivating audiences with their depth.
- The rise of fictional franchises, like Marvel and Star Wars, showcases how they can dominate popular culture and create dedicated fanbases.
- In video games, fictional narratives provide players with immersive experiences, allowing them to become part of a story.
Psychology
- Engaging with fictional narratives can enhance empathy, as readers connect emotionally with characters and their journeys.
- Research indicates that individuals who regularly enjoy fictional literature tend to develop better social perception and understanding.
- Submerging oneself in fictional worlds can also serve as an escape mechanism, allowing individuals to cope with real-life stress.
Education
- Fictional stories are often used in classrooms to facilitate discussions about morals, culture, and human experiences.
- Teachers incorporate fiction into lessons to foster creativity and encourage critical thinking by analyzing characters and plots.
- Literature programs highlight the importance of fictional works in developing language skills, comprehension, and imagination in students.
Origin of 'fictional'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'fictional' comes from the Latin word 'fictio,' meaning a shaping or a making, relating to the creation of stories.
- The usage of 'fiction' and its forms became popular in the English language during the late Middle Ages to denote imaginative narratives.
- In literature, the term has evolved to include various genres, such as fantasy, science fiction, and historical fiction.
The word 'fictional' originated in the mid-17th century, from the Latin word 'fictio' meaning 'a fashioning, a feigning'. It has been used to describe imaginary or invented things, particularly in literature and entertainment. Over the years, 'fictional' has become a commonly used term to differentiate between real and imaginary worlds in various forms of art and storytelling.
See also: fiction, fictionality, fictionalized.