Do characters in your novel take a train journey? If you want to illustrate this scene as vividly as possible, we’re here to help. In this post, we cover the topic of how to describe a train in a story.
1. Rapid
Definition
Something that moves very quickly.
Examples
“The rapid train thundered down the tracks, leaving every passerby in shock. This was a sight no one would forget.”
“He needed a rapid train to make it to the interview on time, but the last express service had already departed.”
How it Adds Description
“Rapid” describes a train that moves very quickly or faster than others. If your characters describe the train as “rapid,” it could signal that they’re impressed by the speed. It can also hint that they need to get somewhere fast, especially if they’re looking for a “rapid” train. “Rapid” can also signal that your fictional world has modern technology that allows speedy journeys.
2. Antique
Definition
Something that’s old and has lots of value due to its rarity or beauty.
Examples
“The antique train rolled into the station, and the cameras started flashing. Such a beautiful locomotive hadn’t been on the tracks in decades.”
“She searched each train warehouse, but she couldn’t find the exact antique train needed for her project.”
How it Adds Description
If you want to include an old or vintage train in your story, “antique” can signal the age and condition of it. “Antique” implies the train is old and very valuable, which might make characters very interested in it. An “antique” train can also be used to show your reader a glimpse of your fictional world’s past.
3. Dull
Definition
Something not exciting or interesting.
Examples
“She boarded the dull train with a sigh. It was going to be a long and boring journey.”
“The train was dull at best. It has no personality, style, or features.”
How it Adds Description
The word “dull” signifies the train is not as exciting as other trains, which lets your reader know the characters aren’t interested in it. This could further show your characters aren’t particularly interested in trains or traveling in general.
4. Sluggish
Definition
Something that works or moves slower than others.
Examples
“The sluggish train took so long to arrive, many of the passengers had fallen asleep at the station.”
“I’m not getting on that sluggish train! Flying is much quicker.”
How it Adds Description
If you want to emphasize how slow your train travels, “sluggish” can give your reader a clear image. Also, if a character deems the train “sluggish,” it might hint that they don’t want to go on the long journey. “Sluggish” could also imply something’s wrong with the train, hence it’s not traveling at its usual fast speed.
5. Sleek
Definition
Something that looks new and expensive.
Examples
“The sleek train was equipped with high-tech screens, a full-service bar, and a sauna.”
“She was drawn to the sleek train, and her secret wish was to travel across the country on it.”
How it Adds Description
“Sleek” implies that your fictional train is top-of-the-line, sophisticated, and expensive. Characters may aspire to travel on the “sleek” train to experience its luxury or to raise their social status. This could lead to some characters being obsessed with the “sleek” train, as they desperately want to experience it.
6. Gigantic
Definition
Something that’s extremely large in physical size.
Examples
“She gasped at the gigantic train. It was obvious she’d never seen a double-decker locomotive before.”
“The gigantic train could barely fit into the station.”
How it Adds Description
“Gigantic” shows the impressive size and scale of your fictional train. If a character thinks a train is “gigantic,” it can show they’re not used to traveling on large-scale public transport. “Gigantic” could also imply that the train is one of the largest in use, especially if many characters are shocked by its size.
7. Futuristic
Definition
Something that looks very unusual and modern.
Examples
“He curiously boarded the futuristic train. It felt like something out of a sci-fi film.”
“The futuristic train was groundbreaking. But it cost over $1000 for a single journey.”
How it Adds Description
The word “futuristic” shows that the train looks very modern or contains the latest technology. “Futuristic” trains might confuse your characters, as their design and features may be different from standard trains. “Futuristic” could also foreshadow technological innovations or tech-based plot points to come in your novel.
8. Modest
Definition
Something that’s not expensive or large.
Examples
“The modest train looked small in comparison to others, but it worked just as well.”
“He could only afford to travel on the modest train. However, this didn’t bother him one bit.”
How it Adds Description
The word “modest” hints that the train in question is more affordable and smaller than others. If your characters call a train “modest,” they might be unimpressed or unbothered about it. “Modest” could also signal that the train is older and there are newer and more expensive models.
9. Revolutionary
Definition
Something that changes the way something is made or done.
Examples
“Thousands gathered for the revolutionary train unveiling. The release was set to change locomotive history.”
“He took his seat on the revolutionary train and waited for the journey to begin. He could hardly contain his excitement.”
How it Adds Description
If you want to show your fictional train is new and groundbreaking, “revolutionary” is the adjective to use. This word signals that the train is a game changer. Characters attracted to a “revolutionary” train might be interested in progress and the future.
10. Stylish
Definition
Something fashionable and elegant in design.
Examples
“The stylish train was a fabulous affair. It had a multi-colored design, premium leather seats, and the latest decor inside.”
“He wished he was riding in the stylish train. But he could only afford to travel in the drab shipping container carriage.”
How it Adds Description
“Stylish” shows that your fictional train is very fashionable and thus might sport the latest designs and bright colors. If your characters are fans of the “stylish” train, they might also be very fashion-conscious and concerned with surface aesthetics. “Stylish” could also hint your fictional society is very advanced, as their transport is not basic or boring.