WordGarden.iotale
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /tˈeɪl/
US
- /ˈteɪl/
Meanings
Noun
a story, especially one told as a narrative
someone's account or version of events
Beyond the definition
A tale is more than just any old story; it often suggests something told aloud, passed down over time, or filled with wonder and sometimes exaggeration. Think of campfire stories, fairy tales, or the stories sailors tell about their adventures at sea.
While a "story" can be factual, a "tale" often leans more toward something imaginative, dramatic, or legendary. You might read a report, but you tell a tale. A "tall tale" is an obviously exaggerated story meant to entertain. The word is also common in book titles and traditional storytelling, where it gives a sense of drama, adventure, or old wisdom.
A tale is a recounting of connected events, real or imagined, presented as a story. It differs from a simple "story" in its often traditional, oral roots and the implication of being shared aloud rather than simply being recorded. Think of ancient myths passed down through generations—those are tales! They frequently carry moral lessons and cultural significance or serve to entertain with fantastical elements.
The word "tale" comes from the Old English talu, meaning "speech" or "discourse." This origin highlights the spoken nature often associated with the word. While you can certainly write a tale (as in a short story), the term evokes a sense of being shared and retold.
In conversation, you might hear about a "woeful tale" (a sad story) or a "heroic tale" (one filled with bravery and adventure). A "fish tale" is a common idiom for an exaggerated account of a large catch that is likely untrue. Similarly, the phrase "to spin a yarn" describes the act of telling a tale, suggesting the crafting of a narrative that might be embellished for dramatic effect.
So, whether it is a classic fairy tale, a local legend, or a personal anecdote shared with friends, a tale is more than just information—it is an experience woven into words and passed from one person to another.
Examples
- 1
Animal story
She wrote a short tale about a fox that tricks a farmer.
- 2
Bedtime stories
As children, we begged our grandmother to tell us tales before bed.
- 3
Survival story
The documentary is a moving tale of survival after the storm.
- 4
Deceptive excuse
He spun a complicated tale about why he was late, but nobody believed him.
- Phrasespin a tale
tell an imaginative story, often to deceive
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
False belief
It's just an old wives' tale that going out with wet hair will make you sick.
- Phraseold wives' tale
a traditional belief that many people think is false
- 6
Warning example
The scandal became a cautionary tale for other startups.
- Phrasecautionary tale
a story or example that warns people about a danger
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- talenoun
Forms
- talespluralnoun