A "故事" (tale) is a narrative that conveys a story, often featuring characters, events, and a plot. Tales can be fictional or based on real-life experiences, and they are commonly used to entertain, educate, or convey moral lessons. They can be found in various forms, including 小说 (novels), 民间故事 (folktales), and 神话 (myths). Tales are an essential part of many cultures, serving as a means of preserving history and traditions. They can be passed down through generations, often evolving over time. Storytelling is a universal practice, with tales being shared in different formats, such as 书籍 (books), 电影 (films), and 口头传说 (oral traditions).