narrative sensibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "narrative sensibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an individual's ability to understand and convey stories or narratives effectively, often in the context of writing or storytelling. Example: "Her narrative sensibility allows her to create compelling characters and intricate plots that resonate with readers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Or a narrative sensibility.

The New York Times - Arts

The narrative sensibility that runs through his fiction was described by the critic Irving Howe as "caustic and shrewd".

The New York Times

It is typical of Brooker's grimly ironic narrative sensibility that Cooper's escapism should bring him to a technologically enhanced haunted house, a dark parody of home.

The New Yorker

The narrative sensibility grows up with the characters, though children are invariably tempted to read ahead of their ages (think of all those 10-year-olds determined to follow Harry and Hermione into adolescence).

The New York Times - Books

His sharply articulated bass lines, startling contrasts in both dynamics and phrase shaping (with smoothly flowing lines offset by abrupt, clipped figures) and a daring, almost narrative sensibility make the most of the inherently dramatic aspects of the Fantasia in C minor (K. 475) and yield a gripping, dark-hued performance.

The New York Times - Arts

In Wyndham's books the ominous takes many intriguing forms, from grotesque social orders to telepathy and man-made monsters; these variable demons are met with a likable, forthright narrative sensibility — friendly, upper-crust British rationalism suddenly faced with an insidious other, primeval, beastly and shockingly late for tea.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Because they've all done time in the jam of humanity that is New York, their narratives and sensibilities overlap in Central Park.

The New York Times

Moreover, "his narrative anticipates a modern sensibility, in which self-doubt and revelation play roles".

The New York Times - Books

From there the narrative becomes Emmy's sensibility combined with mine.

Huffington Post

Fried fish was fuckin' fantastic!" With Where I Belong Alan has crafted a coming-of-age story that reads almost like a male version of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn in its Irish sensibility, episodic narrative, and rapturously detailed universe small in physical scale but infinite in color and character.

Huffington Post

The American style of telling a story threatens that European "sensibility", she suggests: American narratives are "very dynamic, but more violent, and are much more aggressively paced".Hergé wanted the risk taken.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing literature or film, use "narrative sensibility" to describe an author's or director's ability to craft compelling and meaningful stories.

Common error

Avoid using "narrative sensibility" in casual conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "storytelling ability" or "sense of story" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "narrative sensibility" functions as a noun phrase, where "narrative" acts as an adjective modifying "sensibility". Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Books

16%

Arts

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0.03%

Wiki

0.03%

Science

0.03%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "narrative sensibility" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an individual's ability to understand, appreciate, and effectively convey stories. According to Ludwig, this term is often found in contexts related to news, media, literature, and the arts, indicating a neutral register. While the term is not overly common, understanding its nuances can enhance your writing and analytical skills. Remember to reserve this phrase for more formal or analytical contexts rather than casual conversation. Examples from Ludwig showcase its application in literary and film analysis, further clarifying its usage. Alternatives such as "storytelling sensitivity" or "narrative awareness" can be used to diversify your language while maintaining a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

storytelling sensitivity

Replaces "narrative" with "storytelling" offering a more explicit emphasis on the act of telling stories, while maintaining the focus on perceptive understanding.

narrative awareness

Substitutes "sensibility" with "awareness", shifting the focus to conscious recognition and understanding of narrative elements.

storytelling acumen

Replaces "sensibility" with "acumen", emphasizing skill and expertise in crafting and understanding narratives.

narrative perception

Focuses on the perceptual aspect, highlighting how someone interprets and understands narratives, rather than just their general sensitivity.

storytelling intuition

Highlights the intuitive aspect of understanding and creating stories, implying a natural or instinctive feel for narrative.

sense of narrative

A more general way to describe someone's understanding or appreciation for narrative structure and elements.

narrative understanding

Replaces "sensibility" with "understanding", emphasizing the comprehension aspect of narrative appreciation.

literary sensitivity

Broadens the scope to encompass overall sensitivity to literary works, including narratives, styles, and themes.

narrative instinct

Emphasizes an inborn or innate ability to understand and work with narratives.

storytelling aptitude

Focuses on the potential or inherent capability to excel in storytelling, rather than the current level of sensitivity.

FAQs

How can I describe someone with a strong "narrative sensibility"?

You can describe them as someone with a keen "storytelling intuition", a strong "narrative awareness", or a well-developed "sense of narrative".

What does "narrative sensibility" imply in literary analysis?

In literary analysis, "narrative sensibility" refers to an author's ability to craft a compelling and meaningful story, showcasing their understanding of plot, character development, and thematic resonance. It reflects the author's "storytelling acumen".

Is "narrative sensibility" the same as "narrative intelligence"?

"Narrative sensibility" emphasizes understanding and appreciation, while "narrative intelligence" may imply a more active and strategic application of narrative principles. They both denote a talent in this field, however the later sounds more "narrative perception" sounds slightly more academic.

How does "narrative sensibility" differ from general literary appreciation?

"Narrative sensibility" specifically focuses on the appreciation and understanding of storytelling elements, whereas general literary appreciation can include aspects like poetic language, thematic depth, and stylistic innovation. It shows a "literary sensitivity" specifically toward narratives.