Short fiction disclaimer example
Use this concise version when space is limited. Replace the bracketed text and make sure it accurately describes your situation.
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and events are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.
Full fiction disclaimer template
This longer version provides additional context. Review every sentence before publishing and remove language that does not apply.
FICTION DISCLAIMER This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or to actual events is purely coincidental. References to real places, organizations, products or historical events may be used as background. Their inclusion does not imply sponsorship, endorsement or an assertion that the fictional events occurred.
Important: This general template is educational information, not legal advice. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, industry and platform. Have a qualified professional review high-risk or regulated uses.
Coincidental resemblance wording for fiction
The phrase “any resemblance is coincidental” is commonly used when characters, businesses, places or events are fictional or used fictionally. Adapt the wording for books, scripts, games, films or serialized stories.
When to use a fiction disclaimer
- Novels and short stories
- Screenplays, films and episodic fiction
- Games with fictional narratives
- Stories inspired by general historical settings
How to place the fiction disclaimer
- Use a standard fiction statement when people and events are invented.
- Do not rely on the wording to hide an identifiable real-person portrayal.
- Review rights and defamation issues when a work draws closely from real events.
- Place the notice in the front matter, credits or another prominent location.
Disclaimer examples by format
The core sentence stays the same, but novels, screenplays and games each tend to add a detail that fits the medium.
- Novel copyright page: “This is a work of fiction. Any references to historical events, real people or real places are used fictitiously. Other names, characters, places and events are products of the author’s imagination.”
- Historical fiction: “While this story is set against real events, the characters, dialogue and incidents are fictional and should not be read as a factual account.”
- Screenplay or short film: “The characters and events depicted in this film are fictitious. Any similarity to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.”
- Narrative game: “All characters, locations and organizations in this game are fictional. Any resemblance to real entities is unintentional.”
The “all persons fictitious” formula has been used by studios and publishers since the 1930s; its history is summarized in the Wikipedia article on the all persons fictitious disclaimer.
Fiction disclaimer FAQ
Does a fiction disclaimer prevent a defamation claim?
Not automatically. Courts consider the actual portrayal and whether a reasonable audience could identify a real person. A label cannot turn a recognizable factual allegation into harmless fiction.
Can fiction mention real companies or places?
Often yes, but trademark, endorsement, privacy and defamation issues can arise depending on how they are portrayed.
Where does the disclaimer go in a book?
It commonly appears on the copyright page or in the front matter before the story begins.
What is a fictitious disclaimer?
A fictitious disclaimer tells readers or viewers that characters, places, organizations or events are fictional, or that resemblance to real people or events is unintended.
Can I use this wording for a movie?
Yes, but film projects may also need credits wording, rights clearances and separate notices for music, footage, trademarks or dramatized events.