“Monogatari” (物語) is a Japanese word that means “story” or “tale.” It is a broad term that can refer to any type of narrative, including traditional tales, novels, comics, films, etc.
The term “monogatari” is very common in Japan and is used in many different contexts. For example, “monogatari” can be used to refer to stories told orally, such as fairy tales and legends, or to written stories, such as novels and adventure books.
It is also commonly used to refer to films and TV series that focus on a story or narrative, rather than on action or comedy.
Additionally, the term “monogatari” is also used in some titles of anime and manga, such as “Bakemonogatari” and “Monogatari Series.” These titles are based on fictional works that focus on a complex narrative and engaging plot.
Also read: Monogatari Series – All the anime so far
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The Meaning of Monogatari 「物語」
Now that we know the essence of the word Monogatari, let’s understand its literal meaning, its ideograms, and the etymology of the word.
The first ideogram mono [物] means thing, while the second ideogram gatari [語] comes from [語り] which means conversation, tale, narration, or topic.
Monogatari can mean:
- Story;
- Tale;
- Narrative;
- Fable;
- Legend;
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The Monogatari Genre
The word “monogatari” is also used to refer to a genre of narrative in prose or in the form of a novel, which is very popular in Japan. Monogatari can also refer to a tale or an oral story passed down from generation to generation.
The monogatari genre is known for its complex narrative, which often includes multiple points of view and a mix of fantastical and real elements. Monogatari stories are often based on Japanese legends or myths, but can also be inspired by historical events or the personal experiences of the authors.
Some examples of monogatari include “The Tale of Genji” (Genji monogatari), a novel written in the 11th century by the author Murasaki Shikibu, and “The Tale of the Heike” (Heike monogatari), a series of tales about the Japanese civil war of the 12th century.
Monogatari is also a popular genre in modern Japanese literature, and many works of monogatari have been adapted for television, cinema, and other media.
Sentences with the word monogatari
Now let’s see some sentences with the word monogatari, but we will not translate the expression, as it can refer to any type of story, and only the context of the conversation will indicate whether it is a tale, legend, story, or book.
This monogatari was really moving
この物語は本当に感動的でした。 Kono monogatari wa hontou ni kandouteki deshita
The protagonist of the monogatari is very attractive
物語の主人公はとても魅力的です Monogatari no shujinkou wa totemo miryokuteki desu
Monogatari always draws me in
物語は常に私を引き込むものです。 Monogatari wa tsune ni watashi o hikikomu mono desu
Monogatari teaches us many things
物語は私たちに多くのことを教えてくれます。 Monogatari wa watashitachi ni ooku no koto o oshiete kuremasu
Monogatari guides us to imagination
物語は私たちを想像力に導くものです。 Monogatari wa watashitachi o souzouryoku ni michibiku mono desu
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