What is a Narrator? SAT Vocabulary Explained
Learn about the word ‘narrator’ for your SAT prep. Discover its meaning, origin, synonyms, and usage in literature and media. Understand common mistakes and why this concept matters for SAT reading and writing sections.
Imagine you’re watching your favorite movie. There’s a voice guiding you through the story, revealing characters’ thoughts, and setting the scene.
That voice is the narrator, and understanding this word is crucial for your SAT vocabulary.
Word type: Narrator is a noun.
Meaning: A narrator is a person who tells a story or gives an account of something, typically in books, films, or other forms of media.
In literature, the narrator is the voice that relates the story to the reader.
Word history: The word narrator comes from the Latin word narrare, which means to tell or relate.
It entered the English language in the mid fifteenth century, reflecting the importance of storytelling in human culture.
Synonyms: Some synonyms for narrator include storyteller, chronicler, commentator, and raconteur.
Antonyms: While there aren’t direct antonyms for narrator, we can consider terms that represent the opposite role, such as listener, reader, or audience.
Examples use in sentences: The unreliable narrator in the novel left readers questioning the truth of the entire story.
As the documentary’s narrator, Morgan Freeman’s distinctive voice added gravitas to the subject matter.
In her role as the omniscient narrator, the author revealed the inner thoughts of all the characters.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing the narrator with the author. While an author creates the story, the narrator is the voice telling that story, which may or may not represent the author’s own voice.
Another error is assuming all narrators are objective or truthful. In literature, unreliable narrators are often used as a literary device to add complexity to the storytelling.
Understanding the concept of a narrator is essential for SAT reading comprehension and writing sections.
It helps you analyze point of view, perspective, and the reliability of information presented in passages.
Remember, the narrator shapes how we perceive a story, influencing our interpretation and emotional response.
By grasping this concept, you’ll be better equipped to tackle complex texts and craft your own compelling narratives.

