Storytelling: meaning, definitions and examples

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storytelling

 

[ ˈstɔːriˌtɛlɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

art of conveying stories

Storytelling is the art of conveying stories in words, images, and sounds. It is a powerful tool for communication and has been used for centuries to pass down traditions, share knowledge, and entertain audiences. Storytelling can evoke emotions, inspire action, and create connections between people.

Synonyms

narration, story-weaving, tale-telling.

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Word Description / Examples
storytelling

Used for the general act of telling or creating stories, often in an engaging and creative manner. This can apply to both written and oral forms of stories, such as in literature, films, and performing arts.

  • Her talent for storytelling captivated the audience.
  • Good storytelling is essential for a successful film.
narration

Refers specifically to the act of describing events as they happen, often from a particular point of view. This term is commonly used in literature, film, and audio books.

  • The narration of the documentary was very informative.
  • He used first-person narration to make the story more personal.
tale-telling

Often used to describe the act of recounting traditional or fantastical stories, sometimes orally. This term can carry a whimsical or old-fashioned connotation.

  • Grandpa's tale-telling always fascinated the children.
  • Tale-telling was a popular activity around the campfire.
story-weaving

Implies an intricate and skillful method of combining different elements of a story, such as plot and characters, to create a cohesive narrative. It suggests a high level of creativity and complexity.

  • The author's story-weaving skills made the novel a masterpiece.
  • Good story-weaving keeps readers engaged throughout the book.

Examples of usage

  • Her storytelling skills captivated the audience.
  • Companies use storytelling to engage customers and build brand loyalty.
  • Storytelling has been an integral part of human culture since ancient times.

Translations

Translations of the word "storytelling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 narrativa

🇮🇳 कहानी सुनाना

🇩🇪 Erzählen

🇮🇩 bercerita

🇺🇦 розповідання історій

🇵🇱 opowiadanie historii

🇯🇵 物語を語ること

🇫🇷 récit

🇪🇸 narración

🇹🇷 hikaye anlatımı

🇰🇷 이야기하기

🇸🇦 سرد القصص

🇨🇿 vyprávění

🇸🇰 rozprávanie príbehov

🇨🇳 讲故事

🇸🇮 pripovedovanje

🇮🇸 sögur

🇰🇿 әңгімелеу

🇬🇪 მოთხრობის

🇦🇿 hekayə danışmaq

🇲🇽 narración

Etymology

The art of storytelling dates back to ancient civilizations where oral traditions were used to pass down history, myths, and legends. Over time, storytelling evolved with the invention of writing, leading to the creation of epic poems, novels, and plays. In the modern world, storytelling remains a fundamental aspect of human communication, with digital platforms providing new avenues for sharing stories.

See also: stories, storyline, storyteller, storytellers.