Narrative
/ˈnæ.rə.tɪv/
Definitions
2 meaningsA spoken or written account of connected events; a story.
/ˈnæ.rə.tɪv/
A story or account of events, experiences, or the like, whether true or fictitious.
The film presented a compelling narrative of the protagonist's journey.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're telling a friend about what happened on your awesome weekend. The narrative is the story you're sharing – what happened, in what order, and who was involved!
👶 For kids: A narrative is a story that someone tells.
More Examples
The news report offered a different narrative of the political situation.
Her narrative of the event was both engaging and informative.
How It's Used
"The novel's narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives."
"Historians often debate different narratives of the same event."
Relating to or being a story or an account of events.
/ˈnæ.rə.tɪv/
Of or relating to the telling of a story.
The film used a non-linear narrative style.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're describing *how* a story is told, how the plot unfolds. The narrative is related to this aspect of the story.
👶 For kids: When something is narrative, it's like it's telling a story.
More Examples
The book features strong narrative elements.
The painting had a narrative quality to it.
How It's Used
"The author employed a narrative technique to build suspense."
"The film's narrative structure was unconventional."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
rewrite the narrative
To change the way a story or situation is understood or portrayed, often to one's advantage.
"The company decided to rewrite the narrative about their environmental impact to improve their public image."
master narrative
A dominant or overarching story that shapes understanding of a particular subject or group.
"The historical master narrative often overlooked the contributions of marginalized groups."
From Middle French *narratif*, from Latin *narratus*, past participle of *narrare* 'to tell, relate'.
The word 'narrative' has been used since the 16th century, initially as a term for a report or account of a matter.
Memory tip
Think of a *narration* (the act of telling a story) and the *narrative* is the story itself.
Word Origin
"to tell, relate"