Once upon a time

usgb
adverb

Used to start a story, meaning it is set in the past.

Once upon a time, there was a little girl who lived in a village near the forest.
Visual representation of "once upon a time" - Used to start a story, meaning it is set in the past

Often appears as...

  • once upon a time
  • there was...

Usage tips

Literary

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "once upon a time"
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Story Opening

Indicates the beginning of a fairy tale or folk story, often used for children's stories.

Illustration for Story Opening
Once upon a time, an adventurous prince set out on a quest to find a hidden treasure.
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Imaginary Setting

Suggests a make-believe or fantastic world, setting the stage for magic and myth.

Illustration for Imaginary Setting
Once upon a time, in a kingdom made of clouds, there lived a flying horse.
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Historical Distance

Conveys an unspecified time long ago, creating a sense of historical or timeless setting.

Illustration for Historical Distance
Once upon a time, dragons roamed the skies, feared and revered by all.
Visual representation of the word "Once upon a time"

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