anthropology - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
anthropology Word Meanings
- the study of human societies and cultures
- the science of humans and their ancestors
- the comparative study of human cultures
anthropology Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
anthropology Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌænθrəˈpɒlədʒi/
US
/ˌænθrəˈpɑlədʒi/
anthropology Word Etymology
Anthropo- from Greek 'anthropos' meaning 'human' + -logy from Greek 'logia' meaning 'study'; it traces back through Latin to English. Visualize a scholar surrounded by diverse humans and cultures, exploring their lives and customs.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Anthropology is the study of human beings, past and present, and of how they live, think, and organize their worlds. It combines archaeology, cultural analysis, linguistic study, and physical anthropology to explain why people behave the way they do, and how societies change over time. Fieldwork is common, often with long stays among the communities being studied, learning local languages and customs. Anthropologists ask questions about kinship, religion, food, work, and power, and they compare cultures to identify universal patterns as well as local differences. The term comes from Greek roots meaning 'human' and 'study'.
Usage Reminders
- Remember the fieldwork spirit
- Compare cultures, not stereotypes
- Distinguish anthropology from sociology or history
- Use examples across time and place
- Learn key terms in related disciplines
- Practice describing rituals and social structure
Common Misconceptions
- It is only about ancient civilizations.
- It is the same as sociology.
- It focuses only on exotic or 'primitive' cultures.
- It is just about studying languages.
- It makes value judgments about cultures.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: Anthropology is broad and comparative, blending humanities and sciences; emphasize fieldwork and cross-cultural methods, and distinguish it from sociology or history.
Learning Tips
- Read a short ethnography to see how cultures are described
- Practice explaining a ritual to a non-expert
- Compare two cultures on a simple theme (food, kinship, religion)
- Learn basic fieldwork vocabulary and observational phrases
- Use maps and timelines to visualize cultural change
- Avoid assuming beliefs from appearance; look for practices and meanings
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'anthropology'?
A.Study of human societies
B.Study of plants
C.Study of rocks
D.Study of planets
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'anthropology' used correctly?
A.He loves to collect anthropology from the beach.
B.She studies biology, chemistry, and anthropology at university.
C.Let's explore the anthropology of this new species.
D.The anthropology of ancient civilizations is fascinating to learn about.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'anthropology'?
A.Astronomy
B.Sociology
C.Chemistry
D.Geography
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'anthropology'?
A.Mathematics
B.Botany
C.Psychology
D.Zoology
Step 5: Mastery
How does 'anthropology' apply in real-world situations?
A.Studying ancient civilizations
B.Exploring outer space
C.Calculating mathematical equations
D.Building architectural structures
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