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物語 — meaning in English: story

monogatari · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for tale
物語
monogatari
婚約
kon'yaku
ネットワーク
nettowāku
スペース
supēsu
ashi
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 物語 (monogatari) in various contexts, including storytelling sessions, discussing literature, or when referring to films and anime. For example, you might hear it during a book club meeting, where members share their favorite stories, or when friends chat about the latest episode of a popular series.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 話 (hanashi), which also means 'story' or 'talk.' However, 物語 carries a more formal or literary connotation, often referring to structured narratives, while 話 can denote casual conversation or anecdotes.
Culture
The term 物語 has deep roots in Japanese culture, historically used to describe traditional narratives and folklore. It encompasses a wide range of storytelling forms, from ancient tales to modern novels, reflecting the rich tapestry of Japanese literature and its evolving nature in contemporary media, such as manga and anime.
FAQ
Q.What is the meaning of 物語 in English?
物語 (monogatari) translates to 'story' in English, referring to a narrative or tale, whether fictional or based on real events.
Q.How do you use 物語 in a sentence?
You can use 物語 in sentences like 'この物語はとても面白いです' which means 'This story is very interesting.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 物語?
A common mistake is to confuse 物語 with 短編 (tanpen), which means 'short story.' 物語 can refer to longer narratives, while 短編 specifically indicates a shorter format.
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