# anthropology

/ˌænθɹəˈpɑɫədʒi/ (US) · /ˌænθɹəpˈɒlədʒi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/anthropology
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. study of humans and culture

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

the study of humans, their origins, and the different ways people live in societies around the world.

For teachers: the scientific and humanistic study of humanity, typically divided into cultural, linguistic, biological, and archaeological branches.

- She decided to study anthropology because she was fascinated by how different cultures celebrate weddings.
- Cultural anthropology provides a framework for understanding how social structures and belief systems vary across different global communities.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the academic field.

Teaching tip: While it is a C1 word, it is essential for students entering university or reading academic texts about society.

### 2. religious study of humanity

noun · CEFR C2 · Academic · Formal · Technical

the study of what it means to be human in relation to God or a religion.

For teachers: the study of the nature and condition of humanity within a theological or philosophical framework.

- The professor gave a lecture on Christian anthropology and the concept of the soul.
- The seminar explored the nuances of theological anthropology, specifically focusing on the intersection of free will and divine grace.

Usage: Usually requires a qualifying adjective like 'theological' or 'Christian' to distinguish it from the social science.

Teaching tip: This is a highly specialized sense; most learners will only encounter the social science definition.

## Examples

- She decided to study anthropology to learn about different cultures.
- A degree in anthropology provides students with a deep understanding of how social norms vary across different global communities.
- The department's research in urban anthropology examines how migrant populations negotiate identity and space within rapidly expanding megacities.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.