a narrative structure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a narrative structure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the organization or framework of a story or narrative in literature, film, or other storytelling mediums. Example: "The author skillfully employed a narrative structure that kept readers engaged from beginning to end."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Thus, it seems that the surgeons' identity has a narrative structure and is narratively derived.

BMC Medical Ethics

Finally, many complex visualizations have a narrative structure, whether this arises from eye movement across a single scene, from more structured scene transitions as in comic books, or from temporal transitions in animated media (Segel and Heer 2010).

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Mies's buildings have a narrative structure as well as a physical one.

The New York Times - Arts

And a narrative structure was adopted that allows not only for extended but for infinite treatment.

The New Yorker

Yet it puts him within a narrative structure that emphasises his incomplete or belated understanding.

The Guardian - Books

The filmmakers' say their intent was to make a documentary with a narrative structure much like that of dramatic films.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

An adaptation of a novel by Larry Brown, it has a decided literary feel, with a rambling narrative structure and numerous subplots threaded through.

The Guardian - Film

Whereas previous Connie installments (which unspool annually) followed a more narrative structure, Fade To Connie marks a departure of sorts with this show being Part One of Cantwell's thoroughly exhilarating and twisted tribute to film history.

Huffington Post

It is important for you to include a complete narrative structure by including a beginning, middle and ending.

WikiHow

The style of the film is dream-like, sometimes nightmarish, with a nonlinear narrative structure and, at times, a Shakespearean tone.

Vice

Throughout filming, Hoyle and Ryder remained in character, improvising their scenes around a basic narrative structure rather than using a script.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing a text, be specific about which elements of the "narrative structure" you are examining, such as plot, character development, or theme.

Common error

Avoid using "a narrative structure" as a vague descriptor. Instead, identify the specific type of narrative structure employed (e.g., linear, non-linear, cyclical) and how it contributes to the overall meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrative structure" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It refers to the underlying organization or framework of a story, account, or presentation, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

24%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a narrative structure" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the organization of a story or account. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts. When using this phrase, be specific about the elements of the narrative you are analyzing. Consider alternatives like "story structure" or "narrative framework" for nuanced meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

story structure

Focuses specifically on the arrangement of events in a story.

plot structure

Emphasizes the sequence of events that form the main storyline.

narrative framework

Highlights the overall system or plan that supports the narrative.

storytelling structure

Broader term referring to the way a story is told, not just its arrangement.

narrative organization

Directly relates to how the narrative is arranged or ordered.

textual structure

A more general term encompassing the arrangement of any text, not exclusively narratives.

discourse structure

Related to a wider conversation or communication structure, more generic.

narrative form

Refers to a specific category or type of narrative.

narrative arc

Focuses on the development or transformation of a character or plot over time.

structural narrative

Reverses word order but retains meaning, focusing on the narrative's framework.

FAQs

How can I describe "a narrative structure"?

You can describe "a narrative structure" by outlining its key elements, such as plot points, character arcs, and thematic development. Consider whether it follows a traditional linear progression or employs a more complex, non-linear approach.

What are some examples of common narrative structures?

Common narrative structures include linear narratives, cyclical narratives, and frame stories. Each offers a different way to organize and present the events of a story, impacting the reader's experience.

What's the difference between "a narrative structure" and a plot?

"A narrative structure" is the overall framework and organization of a story, while a plot refers to the sequence of events within that framework. The "plot" is one element of the broader narrative structure.

What are some alternatives to "a narrative structure"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "a narrative structure" might include "story structure", "narrative framework", or "plot structure". The best choice depends on the specific aspect you wish to emphasize.