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Tales told and voices heard: distinguishing "narrator" from "storyteller"

Anwar Kareem 19/10/2024, 16:56
English.me team member
Narrator and storyteller. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "narrator" and "storyteller" refer to someone who relates or conveys a story to an audience.

What is different?

A "narrator" is typically an individual who provides a running commentary or description of events within a story, often found in written works like novels, or in visual media like films. A "storyteller" may refer to anyone who tells stories in a more traditional or oral manner, often emphasizing performance, creativity, and engagement with the audience.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for narrator) and storyteller

Examples of usage

Narrator
  • The book is written in first person, and the narrator is a young girl recounting her experiences.
  • The narrator of the documentary provided insightful commentary throughout the film.
  • In this novel, the narrator's perspective is crucial to understanding the protagonist's thoughts and motivations.
Storyteller
  • The campfire storyteller captivated everyone with tales of adventure and mystery.
  • She is a gifted storyteller, able to weave words into magical narratives that enchant listeners.
  • As a professional storyteller, he uses gestures and expressions to bring his tales to life.