# sociology

/ˌsoʊsiˈɑɫədʒi/ (US) · /sˌəʊsɪˈɒlədʒi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sociology
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

the study of how people live together in groups and how society works. It looks at things like family, religion, and how different classes of people treat each other.

For teachers: the systematic study of human society, social institutions, and social relationships. Focuses on the development, structure, and functioning of human groups through empirical investigation and critical analysis.

## Examples

- She decided to study sociology to understand social inequality.
- A degree in sociology provides insights into how urban environments influence the way people interact daily.
- The department's research in urban sociology examines how gentrification alters the social fabric of historic neighborhoods and affects long-term residents' sense of belonging.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the academic field; can be countable when referring to a specific set of social dynamics within a group.

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