Stories: meaning, definitions and examples

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stories

[ˈstɔːriz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in books

Narrative descriptions of events that are fictional or based on real-life experiences, often designed to entertain or inform readers.

Synonyms

narratives, plots, tales.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
stories	Suitable for general use when referring to any account of an event or series of events, either real or fictional. This can include both oral and written forms. She loves reading bedtime stories to her children. His stories about his travels are always fascinating.
tales	Often used for stories that are traditional, imaginative, or fantastical. This term can evoke a sense of nostalgia or folklore. Grandma used to tell us delightful fairy tales before bedtime. The fishermen shared strange sea tales around the campfire.
narratives	Often used in a more formal or literary context. It typically refers to the structured telling of a story, which can include the point of view, style, and interpretation of events. The novel employs multiple narratives to tell the characters' stories. Her narrative on the historical event was well-researched and thorough.
plots	Best used when referring to the main events or storyline of a book, movie, or other narrative work. It usually focuses on the sequence and causality of events. The movie had an intricate plot that kept us guessing until the end. He outlined the plot of his new novel quickly.

Examples of usage

She loved reading stories before going to bed.
The book is filled with captivating stories of adventure and romance.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in movies

A sequence of events depicted in visual form, typically with actors and a screenplay, aimed at conveying a particular message or eliciting emotions from the audience.

Synonyms

cinematic narratives, films, movies.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
stories	Used in a broad sense to describe any account of a series of events or experiences, true or fictional. Common in everyday conversation and writing, including books, conversations, and children's literature. She told us amazing stories about her travels Children's bedtime stories are very important
films	More commonly used in British English to refer to movies. Often used in a somewhat formal tone or in the context of discussing cinema arts. We watched several films at the film festival Her favorite film is a classic from the 1950s
movies	More commonly used in American English to refer to films. Informal, widely used in daily conversation. Do you want to go to the movies tonight? That new superhero movie looks exciting
cinematic narratives	Specifically refers to storytelling methods and structures used in films. Often used in academic or critical writing about film and media studies. The cinematic narrative of this film is complex and layered Studying cinematic narratives can offer insights into a director's style

Examples of usage

The film told a compelling story of love and loss.
Her favorite genre is horror stories.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

in personal experiences

Personal accounts or recollections of past events, often shared to connect with others or reflect on one's own journey.

Synonyms

accounts, anecdotes, memoirs.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
stories	General term for narratives, can include fictional or factual content. Suitable for both written and oral forms. She loves telling interesting stories about her travels The book is filled with short stories about everyday life
anecdotes	Short, amusing or interesting stories about real incidents or people, often used in informal conversation to illustrate a point. He shared a funny anecdote about his first day at work Her speech was filled with personal anecdotes that made everyone laugh
memoirs	A historical account or biography written from personal knowledge, often focusing on specific themes or periods in the author's life. Typically formal and reflective. Her memoirs provide a fascinating insight into her experiences during the war He spent years writing his memoirs about his life as a diplomat
accounts	Generally used to convey factual or detailed descriptions of events, often in a formal or academic setting. The historian provided detailed accounts of the ancient civilizations His account of the meeting was very informative

Examples of usage

She shared a touching story about her childhood with the group.
Each person has a unique life story to tell.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word 'story' comes from the Latin 'historia,' meaning 'history' or 'narrative,' reflecting how stories often relate to events.
Ancient civilizations, such as the Sumerians, told stories on clay tablets, indicating that storytelling has been a core part of human culture for thousands of years.

Cultural Significance

Different cultures often have unique storytelling styles, from oral traditions in Aboriginal cultures to the written epics of ancient Greece.
In many societies, stories are a way to pass down traditions, morals, and lessons from one generation to another.

Psychology

Studies show that listening to or reading stories can boost empathy, helping people understand different viewpoints.
Narratives help our brains organize information, making it easier to remember important details and concepts.

Pop Culture

The rise of the digital age has given birth to new storytelling platforms, like podcasts and web series, redefining how stories are shared.
Popular franchises like Harry Potter and Star Wars showcase how powerful stories can create vast universes and dedicated fan followings.

Literature

Many classic works, like Shakespeare’s plays and Homer’s epics, have become foundational stories that influence modern narratives.
Short stories, often found in literary magazines, allow writers to experiment with narrative techniques in a compressed form.

Translations

Translations of the word "stories" in other languages:

🇵🇹 histórias

🇮🇳 कहानियाँ

🇩🇪 Geschichten

🇮🇩 cerita

🇺🇦 історії

🇵🇱 historie

🇯🇵 物語 (monogatari)

🇫🇷 histoires

🇪🇸 historias

🇹🇷 hikayeler

🇰🇷 이야기 (iyagi)

🇸🇦 قصص (qisas)

🇨🇿 příběhy

🇸🇰 príbehy

🇨🇳 故事 (gùshì)

🇸🇮 zgodbe

🇮🇸 sögur

🇰🇿 әңгімелер

🇬🇪 ისტორიები (ist'oriebi)

🇦🇿 hekayələr

🇲🇽 historias

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,838, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

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1835 informed
1836 waiting
1837 apart
1838 stories
1839 steam
1840 representation
1841 participation
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