What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
storyline
Example
The storyline of the movie was captivating and kept me on the edge of my seat. [storyline: noun]
Example
The author spent a lot of time developing the storyline before writing the actual book. [storyline: noun]
story
Example
The story of Cinderella is a classic fairy tale. [story: noun]
Example
She told us a funny story about her trip to the beach. [story: noun]
Example
He wrote a story about a group of friends who go on a camping trip. [story: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Story is a more common word than storyline in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that can be used in a wider range of contexts. Storyline is more commonly used in the context of analyzing or discussing works of fiction, such as movies or TV shows.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between storyline and story?
Both story and storyline can be used in formal and informal contexts, but storyline may have a more technical or analytical connotation, making it more appropriate for academic or professional settings.
