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 about a detective solving a mystery. [novel: noun]
Example
She spent years writing her first novel and finally got it published. [novel: adjective]
story
Example
He told us a funny story about his childhood. [story: noun]
Example
She writes short stories that are published in literary magazines. [story: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Story is more commonly used than novel in everyday language. Story is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while novel is less common and typically associated with literary works.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between novel and story?
While novel is typically associated with a formal and literary tone, story is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
