Parables are often stories (Luke 15:11–32; 18:1–8) but can also be:
proverbs (short, wise sayings that teach a general truth; Mark 3:24–25; Luke 4:23),
similes and metaphors (Matthew 5:14; 10:16),
comparisons (Matthew 13:33; Luke 15:3–7),
examples (Luke 10:30–35; 12:16–21), or
allegories (metaphors with specific symbols representing each part of the story; Mark 4:3–9; 12:1–12).