Narration: meaning, definitions and examples
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narration
[ˌnærˈeɪʃən ]
Definition
storytelling
The act or process of telling a story or describing events, usually in a spoken form. Narration is often used in literature, film, and theater to convey a sequence of events or convey the thoughts and feelings of characters.
Synonyms
account, description, storytelling.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| narration |
Use when referring to the act of telling a story, often in a structured or formal manner. Common in literature, film, or presentations.
|
| storytelling |
Refers to the art of telling stories, engaging and often informal. Common in oral traditions, children's books, or entertainment.
|
| account |
Suitable for detailing or recounting events, often factual or personal experiences. Common in reports, news, or testimonies.
|
| description |
Best used when explaining or detailing the characteristics or features of something. Common in product details, scenic explanations, or character introductions.
|
Examples of usage
- He provided a captivating narration of his adventures in the jungle.
- The novel's narration switched between different characters' perspectives.
- The documentary's narration was done by a famous actor.
- The author's narration style was praised for its vivid descriptions.
- The teacher's clear narration helped students understand the complex topic.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'narration' comes from the Latin 'narratio,' which means 'a recounting or telling.'
- It entered English in the 14th century, evolving its meaning from simple storytelling to including complex forms.
- In Latin, 'narrare' means 'to tell,' highlighting the importance of storytelling across cultures.
Literature
- In literature, narration can be delivered through different points of view, such as first-person or third-person.
- Some works feature an unreliable narrator, where the storyteller's perspective is skewed, adding twists to the tale.
- The style of narration can greatly affect how a story feels, influencing readers’ emotions and connections.
Film and Media
- Narration in films often guides the audience, providing background information or insights into characters' thoughts.
- Voice-over narration is common in documentaries, helping to explain complex topics in an engaging way.
- Narrative techniques in filmmaking, like flashbacks, rely heavily on effective narration to maintain coherence.
Psychology
- People often use narration as a way to process experiences, helping make sense of complex emotions.
- Therapeutic storytelling, which focuses on personal narratives, can aid in healing and self-discovery.
- The act of narrating one's own life can improve self-awareness and emotional regulation.
Pop Culture
- Popular video games often use narration to enhance the storytelling experience, immersing players deeper into the plot.
- Audio books have become a major trend, allowing stories to be consumed through narration, making literature accessible to many.
- Narration in Podcasts allows stories and discussions to reach wider audiences, blending entertainment with information.
Translations
Translations of the word "narration" in other languages:
🇵🇹 narração
🇮🇳 वर्णन
🇩🇪 Erzählung
🇮🇩 narasi
🇺🇦 розповідь
🇵🇱 narracja
🇯🇵 ナレーション
🇫🇷 narration
🇪🇸 narración
🇹🇷 anlatım
🇰🇷 서술
🇸🇦 سرد
🇨🇿 vyprávění
🇸🇰 rozprávanie
🇨🇳 叙述
🇸🇮 pripovedovanje
🇮🇸 frásögn
🇰🇿 баяндау
🇬🇪 მოთხრობა
🇦🇿 narrasiya
🇲🇽 narración