What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
description
Example
The description of the sunset was breathtaking. [description: noun]
Example
She described the man as tall and muscular. [described: verb]
narrative
Example
The novel had a compelling narrative that kept me engaged. [narrative: noun]
Example
He narrated the story of his travels to the audience. [narrated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Description is more commonly used than narrative in everyday language. Description is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while narrative is more specific and often used in creative writing or storytelling.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between description and narrative?
Both description and narrative can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, description is more commonly used in formal writing, such as academic papers or technical reports, while narrative is more commonly used in creative writing or personal narratives.