an open narrative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an open narrative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a story or account that is flexible, inclusive, or allows for multiple interpretations and perspectives. Example: "The author chose to write an open narrative, inviting readers to draw their own conclusions about the characters' motivations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

There's nobody in the film who performs with the freedom or the originality that Gerwig herself offers as an actor — in part, because Gerwig doesn't give her actors an open narrative framework or production environment akin to the ones that have given rise to her own most original performances (including "Nights and Weekends," from 2008, which she co-directed).

The New Yorker

With storied precision, an open narrative takes charge: a sophisticated walrus in a red blazer dotes over a woman amidst a congregation of exotic birds and mammals representing far-flung geographical habitats (arctic, jungle, etc).

Huffington Post

High challenge, appealing aesthetics, an open narrative, and a singularly impressive soundtrack by Hot Water Music's Chuck Ragan—"he's a long-time friend of our art director, Scott Sinclair," Forrest says, explaining how that connection came about all suggest that The Flame and the Flood will be an indie hit of 2016.

Vice

High challenge, appealing aesthetics, an open narrative and a singularly impressive soundtrack by Hot Water Music's Chuck Ragan – "he's a long-time friend of our art director, Scott Sinclair," Forrest says, explaining how that connection came about – all suggest that The Flame and the Flood will be an indie hit of 2016.

Vice

For pregnancy-related deaths, an adult form and a maternal form is completed, and generates data on age, health history, gestational age, antenatal care, place of delivery, attendant at delivery, and symptoms around the time of death in addition to an open narrative.

Plosone

It included an open narrative of the circumstances leading up to the death, a checklist of signs and symptoms, and a structured questionnaire substantially similar to the INDEPTH/WHO VA questionnaire (3).

Global Health Action

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

A prototype can be handed off in a close, open, narrative, or interactive format.

Effective Prototyping for Software Makers

Structurally, the questionnaires contain a short open narrative section that is followed by a cascade of closed questions.

Global Health Action

It is a tone in the book complemented by an open, personal narrative, proving that, as always, he is unafraid to offer criticism and compliment.

The Guardian - Sport

The movie may be designed within an inch of its life, but there is life in it all the same, an open, relaxed narrative rhythm that cuts against the tight visual arrangements.

The New York Times

Deaths from undetermined injuries were included, because this category includes cases for which the coroner has given an open or narrative verdict, instead of a classification of suicide.

British Medical Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an open narrative" to describe storytelling approaches that encourage audience participation or multiple interpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "an open narrative" when you simply mean a story is poorly planned; flexibility should be an intentional design choice, not a flaw.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an open narrative" functions primarily as a descriptor, characterizing a type of story or account that allows for flexibility, multiple interpretations, and audience participation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in describing narrative frameworks.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an open narrative" describes a story or account characterized by flexibility and interpretive freedom. Ludwig AI confirms it as grammatically correct. While not overly common, it is primarily found in news, media, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, consider the intent to promote audience engagement and multiple interpretations. Avoid using it to describe poorly structured stories; instead, ensure the flexibility is a deliberate and meaningful choice. Alternatives like "a flexible storyline" or "an evolving story" may be appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an evolving story

This alternative emphasizes the changing and developing nature of the narrative.

a flexible storyline

This alternative highlights the adaptability and non-rigid structure of the narrative.

an undefined account

This alternative focuses on the lack of clear boundaries or limitations in the narrative.

a loosely defined plot

This alternative emphasizes the absence of a strict, predetermined sequence of events.

an interpretive framework

This alternative highlights how the narrative can be understood or analyzed in various ways.

a malleable narrative

This alternative suggests that the narrative can be easily shaped or influenced.

a non-linear narrative

This alternative specifies that the narrative does not follow a traditional sequential order.

an adaptable storyline

This alternative stresses the capacity of the narrative to adjust to different circumstances or perspectives.

a fluid account

This alternative emphasizes the flowing and ever-changing nature of the narrative.

an emergent narrative

This alternative highlights how the narrative develops and takes shape over time, often in unpredictable ways.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "an open narrative" in my writing?

Employ "an open narrative" when you want to invite the audience to actively participate in constructing the story's meaning. This can be achieved by leaving room for interpretation, providing multiple perspectives, or encouraging reader interaction.

What's a good alternative to using "an open narrative"?

Depending on the context, you might consider using alternatives like "a flexible storyline", "an evolving story", or "an interpretive framework".

Is "an open narrative" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "an open narrative" can be used in formal writing, especially in academic or analytical contexts where you are discussing narrative structures or storytelling techniques. However, consider your audience and the overall tone of your piece.

What distinguishes "an open narrative" from a traditional narrative?

Unlike a traditional narrative that typically has a clear beginning, middle, and end, "an open narrative" often lacks a definitive conclusion and may encourage multiple interpretations or continuations. It prioritizes flexibility and reader engagement over a fixed storyline.