English Reference

Word

multidisciplinary

Phoneticsmul·ti·dis·ci·plinary

UK/mˌʌltɪdˈɪsɪplˌɪnəɹi/

Definition

adj. combining several different areas of study or work to solve a problem. You use this when people from different fields, like science and art, work together on one project.

adj. combining or involving several academic disciplines or professional specializations in an approach to a topic or problem. Often used to describe research teams or educational programs.

Examples

“The university offers a multidisciplinary course in environmental studies.”

“Solving the climate crisis requires a multidisciplinary approach involving scientists, economists, and policy experts.”

“The research center promotes multidisciplinary collaboration by housing engineers and biologists in the same facility to foster innovative medical breakthroughs.”

Examples

simple

“The university offers a multidisciplinary course in environmental studies.”

contextual

“Solving the climate crisis requires a multidisciplinary approach involving scientists, economists, and policy experts.”

complex

“The research center promotes multidisciplinary collaboration by housing engineers and biologists in the same facility to foster innovative medical breakthroughs.”

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun; often paired with 'approach', 'team', or 'study'.

Real-World Examples

Common in science writing

“Strong commitment and accountability from politicians, NHS boards, regulators, professional leaders, educators and every member of the multidisciplinary team will be essential.”
The Guardian · 17 Aug 2026
“New multidisciplinary clinics are opening, research is accelerating, and, with that, understanding of the disorder continues to grow.”
The Conversation · 14 Aug 2026

Word family

This entry

Level
C1 · Advanced
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

Scan code

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English Reference