# introduction

/ˌɪntɹəˈdəkʃən/ (US) · /ˌɪntɹədˈʌkʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/introduction
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. meeting people

noun · CEFR A2

the act of telling two people each other's names so they can meet.

For teachers: the formal act of presenting one person to another or to a group.

- After a quick introduction, the two neighbors realized they grew up in the same town.
- The host made a formal introduction of the keynote speaker, highlighting her extensive research in renewable energy before she took the stage.

### 2. opening of a book or speech

noun · CEFR B1

the first part of a book, article, or speech that explains what it is about.

For teachers: the preliminary section of a literary work or speech that establishes the context and purpose of the main text.

- The introduction of the book explains why the author decided to travel across Africa.
- In the introduction to his thesis, the candidate clearly outlined the methodology and the specific research questions he intended to address.

### 3. bringing in something new

noun · CEFR B2

the first time a new system, product, or idea is used or brought into a place.

For teachers: the act of bringing something into use or operation for the first time.

- The introduction of the new law caused a lot of debate in the city.
- The introduction of automated machinery significantly increased the factory's output but also necessitated a comprehensive retraining program for the staff.

### 4. basic explanation

noun · CEFR B1 · Academic

a short book or course that teaches you the basic facts about a subject.

For teachers: a preliminary explanation or a basic treatment of a subject for beginners.

- I am taking a class that is an introduction to ancient history.
- This seminar provides a thorough introduction to quantum mechanics, assuming no prior knowledge of the mathematical frameworks involved.

## Examples

- The book's introduction explains why the author wrote it.
- After a brief introduction by the host, the guest speaker began her presentation on climate change.
- The author uses the introduction to establish the historical context of the narrative, ensuring readers understand the social pressures facing the characters before the first chapter begins.

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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.