Story: meaning, definitions and examples

A story can be used in a general sense to describe any account of events, real or fictional.

• She told me a fascinating story about her travels around the world

A tale is typically a short story that may involve imaginary or fantastical events and characters. It is often used for storytelling aimed at children.

• Grandma always tells us a bedtime tale before we go to sleep

A narrative is a structured account of a series of events, often with a clear beginning, middle, and end. It's used in more formal or literary contexts.

• The narrative of the novel kept me engaged until the very last page

A legend often refers to a traditional story or myth that is believed to have historical roots but includes fictional elements.

• The legend of King Arthur has been told for centuries

Used for a broad range of narratives, whether real or imagined, and in both formal and informal settings.

• She told me a fascinating story about her travels in Africa.
• The children gathered around for bedtime stories.

Used primarily in formal or factual situations, often involving a detailed description of events or experiences.

• His account of the event was very thorough and helped the police investigation.
• The book gives a first-hand account of life during the war.

Used for detailed and chronological descriptions of events over time, often in written form and in formal contexts.

• The historian compiled a chronicle of the king's reign.
• The movie is a chronicle of the artist's journey to fame.

Used in a literary context to describe the structured and creative telling of a story, often with a focus on the storytelling technique.

• The narrative of the novel is non-linear and shifts between different time periods.
• His narrative style captures the reader's attention from the very first page.