Translation guide
A narrative that is invented or fictional, not based on real events. This guide covers how to express this concept naturally in Japanese, from common words for fictional tales to phrases for fabricated excuses.
A story that is invented, not true, often for entertainment.
The most direct equivalent. It literally means 'made-up story' and is used for fictional tales or fabricated accounts.
That's just a made-up story.
Borrowed from English, used for fictional works in literature, film, etc. Often implies a clear distinction from non-fiction.
This novel is fiction.
Literally 'fictional story', emphasizing that it is imaginary or not based on reality.
That's a completely made-up story.
Refers to a creative work or original story, often used in literary or artistic contexts. Can imply something crafted or invented.
This is his original story.
A story invented to deceive or avoid trouble, often an excuse.
A fabrication or trumped-up story, often with a negative connotation of being a lie or false accusation.
His story is completely made up.
Literally 'lie story', a straightforward term for a false tale.
I won't be fooled by such a made-up story.
A verb phrase meaning 'to make up a story', often implying fabrication for a purpose.
He made up an excuse story.
An imaginative story created by or for children, often playful.
作り話 is a general term for any made-up story, including lies. フィクション is specifically for artistic fictional works and doesn't carry the negative nuance of deception.
His alibi was a made-up story.
This movie is fiction.
Directly translating 'made-up story' as 作られた話 is unnatural. Use the established terms above instead.
She likes telling made-up fantasy stories.