* Oral story: This is the most straightforward and accurate term, emphasizing the story's origin as spoken rather than written.
* Folklore: This term refers to traditional stories, myths, and legends that were passed down through generations orally.
* Legend: This term often implies a story that is based on historical events, but has been embellished and exaggerated over time.
* Myth: This term refers to stories about gods, goddesses, and other supernatural beings that were used to explain natural phenomena and cultural values.
* Verbal tradition: This term emphasizes the importance of oral transmission in preserving and spreading stories.
* Tale: This is a more general term for any story, but it can be used to describe a story that was told rather than written, especially if it's a traditional or folk tale.
Ultimately, the best way to describe a story that was told rather than written depends on the specific context and the story itself.