story
noun (countable)
UK/ˈstɔː.ri/US/ˈstɔːr.i/
A level of a building (US usage; in British English, this is usually spelled 'storey').
Example Sentences
Her apartment is located on the tenth story of the downtown high-rise, offering panoramic views of the city skyline.
They built a three-story home, with the top floor reserved for a peaceful reading room overlooking the garden.
The hotel has two-story suites featuring spiral staircases and floor-to-ceiling windows.
We work in a 15-story office building that houses numerous businesses and shared conference rooms.
The architectural plans show an additional story under construction, expanding the building’s capacity for new residents.
Laws in some cities restrict how many stories a structure can have, aiming to preserve historical character and prevent overcrowding.
Her dream house design includes an open staircase connecting the ground floor, the second story, and a small attic for extra storage.
Property listings often highlight the number of stories to appeal to buyers looking for multi-level family homes or single-level accessibility.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
A tale conveying real or imagined events and people.This term represents a sequence of events—real or fictional—organized to captivate, inform, or entertain. It can be shared in multiple ways: verbally, through writing, or via digital platforms. When telling one in everyday conversation, keep it concise if your goal is casual sharing; introduce your setting, characters, and central conflict or theme, and aim for a satisfying conclusion.In formal or long-form contexts, such as novels or articles, include details about the setting, character motivations, and the progression of events to engage readers. You can amplify the emotional impact by focusing on sensory details—sights, sounds, smells—that immerse the audience in the narrative. Your overarching goal is to maintain coherence and structure so that listeners or readers can follow the timeline of events. Whether you draw from personal experiences or pure imagination, clarity in your transitions (like “Next,” “Eventually,” “Suddenly”) and a clear outcome or resolution can help deliver a compelling, memorable narrative. Above all, tailor your approach to the setting and your intended audience to ensure your account remains both engaging and appropriate.
Alternatives
Several words can serve as alternatives or companions to this term, each with its own shade of meaning. “Tale” often suggests a more imaginative or whimsical narrative, sometimes with a folk or fairy-tale sensibility. “Narrative” emphasizes the structure and storytelling perspective, highlighting the way events are communicated rather than just what happened. “Account” can denote a factual recounting, focusing on accurate details and chronology, while “report” suggests formal or journalistic coverage of events.“Chronicle” indicates a detailed record of events arranged in time, underscoring the sequence of unfolding incidents. “Saga” hints at a lengthy, often heroic or epic progression, typically spanning substantial time or encompassing multiple generations of characters. “Anecdote” is a short, usually amusing or illustrative snippet that centers on a single incident, rather than a sprawling plot. Meanwhile, “fable” involves a moral lesson or wisdom, usually featuring animals or personified objects. Finally, “myth” or “legend” points to tales rooted in cultural lore, sometimes blending history and superstition. By selecting the right term, you can shape your audience’s expectations and bring out the desired tone or scope of your narrative.
Writing
When incorporating this term into written work, structure is paramount. A well-crafted piece typically includes a beginning that introduces characters and context, a middle section building tension or conflict, and a resolution that ties everything together. Think about pacing: too much detail too soon can overwhelm the reader, while holding back crucial information for too long might cause confusion or disinterest. Aim for a balance that piques curiosity.Also, consider the purpose. If you’re writing for entertainment—like fiction or creative nonfiction—use descriptive language and focus on emotional arcs to immerse readers. If your goal is persuasion, such as in marketing or opinion pieces, you might craft a concise scenario that illustrates your argument. In academic or journalistic settings, your retelling could focus on factual clarity, enumerating events with accuracy. Regardless of genre, smooth transitions make the piece coherent. Keep the conclusion memorable—whether it’s a punchy twist, a thoughtful moral, or a compelling insight—so your audience reflects on the narrative long after finishing.
Casual Conversation
In day-to-day conversation, sharing this kind of narrative can be a delightful way to connect with others. When you relay an experience, start by setting the scene briefly—mention where and when something happened, and who was involved. Then highlight the most compelling parts so you don’t lose your listener’s interest. Humor, suspense, or personal reflection all help maintain engagement, but try not to overshare minor details that might dilute the impact.Be mindful of your audience’s reactions. If they seem curious, add a bit more detail; if they look distracted or rushed, wrap it up with a concise concluding point. Whether you’re recounting a funny moment at the grocery store or a childhood memory, an honest, down-to-earth style helps foster intimacy and understanding. Also, remember that good storytellers vary their pacing, tone, and emphasis to draw listeners in. If your anecdote has a punchline, build anticipation; if it has a thoughtful lesson, shape your tone to invite reflection. These small techniques bring your account to life, making it resonate with those around you.
Etymology
The term springs from late Middle English, derived from the Anglo-Norman and Old French roots pointing to a telling or recounting of events. Over centuries, it evolved to capture both factual and imaginative retellings of human experiences. Oral traditions in ancient civilizations relied heavily on narratives, passing down culture, beliefs, and values. These were eventually written down, preserving accounts for future generations.As mass literacy grew and printing technology advanced, this concept expanded from the realm of spoken folklore to published works, spanning everything from fictional novels to journalistic narratives. In contemporary times, digital platforms have further widened the scope. Social media allows individuals to share personal anecdotes and reflections instantly with global audiences. Despite changes in medium and style, the fundamental essence remains: weaving experiences into a coherent sequence that helps us connect, make sense of the world, and spark our imaginations. Across cultures and eras, this method of communication has proven integral to preserving history, shaping collective identity, and fueling creative expression.
