Definition

Describing something that is based on real events or facts, rather than being made up or imagined.

Example

The book is a nonfictional account of the author's experiences during the war.

Conversation

Have you read any good books lately?

Yeah, I just finished a really interesting nonfictional book about space exploration.

Oh, that sounds fascinating! What was the main topic?

It covered the history of the moon landing and the people involved.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonfictional → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "fiction" (from Latin *fictio*, meaning the act of making or shaping). The word "nonfictional" refers to works that are not made up, but rather based on real events or facts.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'fiction' meaning 'the act of making up stories' — so nonfictional describes something that is not made up, but based on reality.

Visually Confused Words