Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈnærətɪv/
KK: /ˈnærətɪv/
Definition
Relating to the telling of a story or the way a story is presented.
Example
The narrative style of the book made it very engaging.
Conversation

I just finished reading a really interesting book with a great narrative.

Oh, nice! What was it about?

It was about a young girl discovering her family’s history through a narrative style that was so engaging.

That sounds captivating! I love stories that connect personal experiences.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
descriptive
storytelling
chronicle
Antonyms
nonfiction
unrelated
disjointed
Definition
A story or account of events, often told in a structured way.
Example
The narrative of the novel captivated readers with its twists and turns.
Conversation

Have you read that new book with the amazing narrative?

Not yet! I've heard it really draws you in.

Yeah, the way the author builds the narrative is really impressive.
Root Explanation
Narrative → It is formed from "narrare" (meaning to tell) and the suffix "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word "narrative" refers to something that has the nature of telling a story or recounting events.
Memory Tip
Think of 'telling' a story ('narrare') and how 'narrative' means something that has the nature of telling a story.
Visually Confused Words
arrogative
antinarrative
native
incarnative
arrive
arbitrative