Word
saga
US/ˈsɑɡə/
UK/sˈɑːɡɐ/
Definitions
01a long, complicated series of events
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun
n. a long story about a series of events, often involving many people or a long time.
n. a long and complicated series of events or a detailed account of them, often used to describe family histories or dramatic situations.
“The whole saga of moving house took six months and caused a lot of stress.”
“The family saga spans three generations, detailing their rise from poverty to becoming one of the most influential dynasties in the country.”
Usage
Often used with 'the whole' or 'the entire' to emphasize how long or annoying a situation is.
02Old Norse legend
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Literature Technical
n. a traditional story from the Middle Ages about heroes and history in Iceland or Norway.
n. a medieval Icelandic or Norse prose narrative involving historical or legendary figures and family histories.
“In school, we read a famous saga about a Viking hero and his travels.”
“Scholars continue to debate the historical accuracy of the Icelandic sagas, weighing oral tradition against archaeological evidence.”
Teaching tip
When used in this historical sense, it is often capitalized as 'Saga'.
Real-World Examples
“The recent international break has proved to be a goldmine for punishment admin, nicely wrapped up on Wednesday night with the latest chapter of the Southampton Spygate saga.” “In the 13th century Old Norse Völsunga Saga , the hero Sigurd slays the slithering, poison-spewing dragon Fáfnir.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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