# autobiographical

/ˌɔtəˌbaɪəˈɡɹæfɪkəɫ/ (US) · /ˌɔːtəʊbˌaɪəɡɹˈæfɪkəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/autobiographical
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

describing a story or book that a person writes about their own life. It means the author is sharing their real experiences and memories.

For teachers: relating to or based on the author's own life experiences. Often used to describe literary works or films where the narrative closely mirrors the creator's personal history.

## Examples

- She wrote an autobiographical novel about her childhood.
- Many readers wonder how much of the protagonist's struggle is truly autobiographical and how much is fiction.
- The director's latest film is deeply autobiographical, drawing on his formative years in post-war Italy to explore themes of displacement and artistic awakening.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun; often modified by adverbs like 'largely', 'partly', or 'deeply'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.