What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
folktale
Example
The folktale of Cinderella is a classic story that has been told for centuries. [folktale: noun]
Example
Grandma used to tell us folktales about the spirits that lived in the forest. [folktale: plural noun]
story
Example
I read a story about a boy who discovered a treasure map. [story: noun]
Example
She told me a funny story about her trip to the beach. [story: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Story is a more common word than folktale in everyday language. Story is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while folktale is more specific to traditional narratives.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between folktale and story?
While folktale is typically associated with a more formal tone and is often used in academic or cultural contexts, story is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
