What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
folktale
Example
The story of Cinderella is a famous folktale that has been retold in many cultures. [folktale: noun]
Example
Grandma used to tell us folktale stories about the spirits of the forest. [folktale: adjective]
fable
Example
The Tortoise and the Hare is a classic fable that teaches the importance of perseverance. [fable: noun]
Example
The story of the Ant and the Grasshopper is a fable that warns against laziness. [fable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fables are more commonly known and used in everyday language than folktales. This is because fables are often taught in schools and are widely available in children's literature. Folktales, on the other hand, may be less familiar to non-native speakers and require a deeper understanding of cultural context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between folktale and fable?
Both folktale and fable are relatively informal words that can be used in casual conversation or storytelling. However, fable may be slightly more formal due to its association with literature and education.
