Meaning of "fable" in English

A "fable" is a short narrative, often featuring animals as characters, that conveys a moral lesson or ethical teaching. These stories, rich in allegory and metaphor, have been part of human storytelling traditions for centuries. Fables typically convey simple, universal truths and have been used for educational purposes across cultures. They encourage reflection on human virtues and flaws by illustrating consequences in a straightforward, easily digestible format. Well-known examples include Aesop's Fables, which have become a staple in both literary and oral traditions worldwide.

Meaning of "fable" in French

In French, the word "fable" carries a similar meaning as in English, referring to a short story, usually with animals or inanimate objects as characters, that imparts a moral lesson. French fables often originated from famous fabulists like Jean de La Fontaine, whose works are celebrated for their wit, charm, and philosophical insights. Fables are a rich component of French literary heritage and are used to instill values and wisdom, effectively blending entertainment with education. This narrative style remains popular in both oral and written traditions in France and around the francophone world.

Pronunciation of "fable" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈfeɪ.bəl/

Pronunciation Variations: In some English dialects, the emphasis may vary slightly, but generally, the word is pronounced similarly across most English-speaking regions. The initial sound is often elongated in American English.

Pronunciation of "fable" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /fa.blə/

Pronunciation Variations: In French, regional accents might introduce subtle changes in pronunciation, particularly with the articulation of vowel sounds, but these changes are typically minor.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The fable of the tortoise and the hare teaches patience.
    (La fable de la tortue et du lièvre enseigne la patience.)

  2. Aesop's fables are popular among children worldwide.
    (Les fables d'Ésope sont populaires parmi les enfants du monde entier.)

  3. Each fable carries a valuable life lesson.
    (Chaque fable porte une leçon de vie précieuse.)

  4. The fox in the fable was known for his cunning tricks.
    (Le renard dans la fable était connu pour ses ruses astucieuses.)

  5. The teacher read a fable to the class as a bedtime story.
    (L'enseignant a lu une fable à la classe comme histoire du soir.)

  6. Writing fables can be a creative exercise for students.
    (Écrire des fables peut être un exercice créatif pour les élèves.)

  7. Fables often use animals to symbolize human traits.
    (Les fables utilisent souvent des animaux pour symboliser des traits humains.)

  8. The moral of the fable was clear and impactful.
    (La morale de la fable était claire et percutante.)

  9. In ancient times, fables were used to spread knowledge.
    (Dans les temps anciens, les fables étaient utilisées pour diffuser le savoir.)

  10. The old fables still resonate with readers today.
    (Les vieilles fables résonnent encore avec les lecteurs aujourd'hui.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "fable" in English

Synonyms: parable, allegory, tale, myth, legend, narrative, story, lesson, folklore, saga.

Antonyms: fact, truth, reality, nonfiction.

Similar Words: anecdote, yarn, fairy tale, folklore, myth.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "fable" in French

Synonyms: conte, parabole, récit, légende, histoire, allégorie, mythe, apologue, narration, fiction.

Antonyms: vérité, réalité, fait.

Similar Words: légende, conte de fées, histoire, mythe, mythologie.

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