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Parable - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A parable is a short, simple story that teaches a moral or spiritual lesson, often using everyday events or nature to illustrate deeper truths. It is commonly found in religious texts and literature.

parable

/ˈpɛrəbəl/ /ˈpærəbəl/

Definition:

A simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson.

Synonyms:

allegory, fable, metaphor, analogy

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

literal statement, fact, reality

Common Collocations:

teach a parable, interpret a parable, Jesus' parables

Derivatives:

parabolic, parabolical

Usage Tips:

Use 'parable' to describe short stories with deeper meanings, often religious or moral lessons.

Common Phrases:

the parable of the sower, the prodigal son parable

Etymology:

From Greek 'parabolē', meaning comparison or analogy, via Latin 'parabola'.

Examples:

  • 1. The teacher told a parable about kindness and forgiveness.
  • 2. Jesus often used parables to teach his followers important lessons.
  • 3. This modern film is a parable about greed and corruption.
  • 4. The book contains many parables from different cultures worldwide.

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