Parable: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used in religious or moral contexts to teach a lesson through a simple story.

• The parable of the Good Samaritan is a well-known story that teaches kindness

Used when a story has a deeper, symbolic meaning, often political, social, or moral.

• George Orwell's 'Animal Farm' is an allegory about the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalinism

Often used for stories that include animals as characters and end with a moral lesson, frequently targeted at children.

• Aesop's fable, 'The Tortoise and the Hare,' teaches the lesson that slow and steady wins the race

Used to share a short, amusing, or interesting story about a real incident or person. Often used in conversations or speeches.

• He began his speech with a funny anecdote about his childhood

A simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson. Often found in religious texts, such as the Bible.

• The parable of the Good Samaritan teaches us to love our neighbor.
• Jesus often spoke in parables to convey deep truths.

A narrative in which characters, events, and details represent abstract ideas or generalizations about human existence. Used in literature, art, and film to convey complex ideas.

• George Orwell's 'Animal Farm' is an allegory about the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalinism.
• Dante's 'The Divine Comedy' is an allegory of the soul's journey toward God.

A short story, typically with animals as characters, conveying a moral lesson. Often used in children's literature.

• Aesop's fables, like 'The Tortoise and the Hare', are used to teach children valuable life lessons.
• 'The Boy Who Cried Wolf' is a classic fable about the importance of honesty.