humanities
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the study of subjects like history, literature, languages, and philosophy.
the branch of learning comprising the arts, history, literature, and philosophy, distinct from the sciences and social sciences.
Simple“She decided to study the humanities because she loved reading history and literature.”
In context“The university has seen a decline in funding for the humanities as more students gravitate toward technical and vocational degrees.”
UsageAlways used in the plural form when referring to the field of study.
- 02 C2 Proficiency
the study of ancient Greek and Latin language and literature.
the study of classical Greek and Latin literature and culture.
Simple“In the old school curriculum, the humanities meant learning Latin and Greek.”
In context“The professor held a chair in the humanities, specifically focusing on the translation of obscure Latin manuscripts from the fourteenth century.”
UsageRare in modern contexts; usually replaced by 'Classics'.
Synonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
more than one type of human nature or the state of being human.
the plural form of humanity, referring to multiple instances of human nature or the human race.
Simple“The poet wrote about the different humanities found in every corner of the world.”
In context“The philosopher argued that we must recognise the shared humanities that bind diverse cultures together despite their superficial differences.”
Synonymshuman beingsmankind
“The highest growing subjects in Shape (the acronym for social sciences, humanities and arts) was business studies, with a 7.9% increase.”
“As someone who teaches humanities and social sciences at the college level, I find these figures shocking, if not surprising.”