Fiction. Novels are mostly works of fiction. They are stories that are made up, so 'fiction' can be considered another word for a novel. It emphasizes the fictional nature of the narrative.
Narrative. A novel is a long narrative work. It tells a story, and 'narrative' emphasizes the storytelling aspect, so it can be another word for novel.
A third word that can be used instead of fiction is 'fable'. However, a fable often has a moral lesson within it, which is not always the case for all types of fiction. But in a general sense, it can be considered as another word for fiction. Fables are fictional tales that usually involve animals or inanimate objects as characters, and they are passed down through generations to teach people certain values or life lessons.
Recounting. This means to tell someone about something that has happened. For instance, when a witness recounts the details of a crime in court, they are actually telling a story of what they saw and experienced.
One could also say 'SF' as another term for science fiction. This is a more concise abbreviation, similar to 'sci - fi'. It's often used in the context of categorizing books, movies, or other forms of media. For example, in a bookstore, you might find a section labeled 'SF' which contains all kinds of science - fiction works.
Expansive. It has the ability to cover vast topics, from the microscopic world of nanotechnology to the vastness of the cosmos. It can also explore different cultures, both human and alien, and how they interact. This expansiveness gives readers a sense of the limitless possibilities that exist, not just in the fictional universes of science fiction but also in our own world if we dare to dream and explore.