What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
novel
Example
I just finished reading a great novel by Jane Austen. [novel: noun]
Example
She is currently working on writing her first novel. [novel: adjective]
fiction
Example
I enjoy reading fiction books in my free time. [fiction: noun]
Example
The author is known for her creative use of fictional elements in her writing. [fictional: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fiction is a more commonly used term than novel in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of imaginative writing. However, novel is still a widely recognized and respected form of literature.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between novel and fiction?
Novel is generally considered a more formal term than fiction, as it is associated with a higher level of literary merit and cultural significance. However, both terms can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.