From Middle English parable, borrowed from Anglo-French and Old French, from Late Latin parabola, from Greek parabolē, meaning comparison or setting side by side.
From Middle English parable, borrowed from Anglo-French and Old French, from Late Latin parabola, from Greek parabolē, meaning comparison or setting side by side.
What is a parable?
A parable is a short story that teaches a moral or religious lesson.
How is a parable different from a fable?
A fable often uses animals or clearly imaginary figures, while a parable usually uses ordinary human situations to teach a lesson.
Can a real event be called a parable?
Yes. A real event can be called a parable when it seems to offer an instructive moral lesson.
Is a parable the same as an allegory?
No. An allegory often maps many details to hidden meanings, while a parable is usually simpler and focused on one lesson.
Are parables always religious?
Parables are often religious, especially in the Bible, but they can also teach secular moral lessons.
What is the plural of parable?
The plural is parables.
Where does parable come from?
Parable comes through French and Latin from Greek parabolē, meaning comparison.