Cool MateNovel
UK //ˈnɒv.əl//US //ˈnɑː.vəl//
Definition
A long fictional narrative usually written in prose.
In simple words: A new and long story usually in a book.
Examples
- She loves reading a novel before bedtime.
- The author wrote a novel about a brave knight.
- His latest novel won several awards last year.
- This novel has a very interesting plot twist.
- I borrowed a novel from the library to read on vacation.
Usage notes
Use 'novel' when referring to fiction books. In academic contexts, it can also refer to new ideas or approaches.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of a 'new-tale' to remember that a novel is a new story.
Collocations
- read a novel
- write a novel
- fictional novel
- historical novel
- best-selling novel
Synonyms
- book
- tale
- story
- narrative
- fiction
Antonyms
- short story
- nonfiction
Common mistakes
- Mistaking 'novel' for 'novella' (a shorter narrative).
- Confusing 'novel' with 'new' in general contexts.
- 'Novel' can refer specifically to fiction, so don't use it for non-fiction.