Stories: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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