WordGarden.iononfiction
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /nˌɒnfˈɪkʃən/
US
- /nɑnˈfɪkʃən/
Meanings
Noun
writing or books about real people, events, and facts
Adjective
based on facts rather than invented stories
Beyond the definition
Imagine curling up with a good book. Some books tell made-up stories, and that is fiction. But other books share real information about the world, people's lives, or events that actually happened. That is nonfiction. You can think of it as "not fiction." You might read this kind of book to learn about dinosaurs, the life of Abraham Lincoln, or how to build a birdhouse. It is based on facts and real life.
It is not just limited to books. Documentaries, news articles, biographies, and textbooks are all examples of it. If something tries to present facts instead of telling a made-up story, you are probably reading or watching nonfiction. It is the world around us, captured in words and images.
The word nonfiction describes writing or content that deals with factual information about real people, places, events, and ideas. It stands in contrast to fiction, which is based on imagination and invented stories. Think of it as a commitment to truth; nonfiction strives to present accurate information supported by evidence and research.
Nonfiction takes many forms. Biographies tell the story of someone's life, while autobiographies are written by the subjects themselves. History books explore past events, science texts explain natural phenomena, and self-help books offer guidance on personal growth. News articles report current happenings, and travel guides provide information about real-world destinations. Even instruction manuals—like those for assembling furniture or operating appliances—fall under the umbrella of nonfiction.
The purpose of nonfiction is often to inform, educate, persuade, or inspire. While it doesn't rely on made-up characters or imaginary plots, good nonfiction can still be incredibly engaging and compelling. A well-written biography, for example, can read like a novel, bringing history to life with vivid details and captivating storytelling.
So, next time you pick up a book or article, ask yourself: is this based on real events and facts? If the answer is yes, then you're diving into the world of nonfiction—where truth takes center stage.
Examples
- 1
Reading habits
I usually read nonfiction before bed and save novels for weekends.
- 2
Climate topic
I’m looking for nonfiction about climate change that isn’t too technical.
- 3
Library section
The nonfiction section is on the second floor, next to history and travel.
- 4
Published work
Her first book was a work of nonfiction about life in a busy hospital.
- Phrasea work of nonfiction
one book, essay, or other piece in this category
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Children's books
He writes nonfiction for children, with lots of photos and clear explanations.
- 6
Literary style
Creative nonfiction uses scenes and dialogue while staying close to real events.
- Phrasecreative nonfiction
nonfiction written in a more literary or story-like style
See also
Similar
- factual writing
- informational writing
- factual prose
Shades of meaning
- expository writing
- literary nonfiction
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- nonfiction book
- nonfiction writer
- nonfiction section
- creative nonfiction
Word family
- nonfictional
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- nonfictionnoun