# subgroup

/ˈsəbˌɡɹup/ (US) · /sˈʌbɡɹuːp/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/subgroup
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

a smaller group of people or things that is part of a larger group. You use this when you want to talk about a specific set within a bigger category.

For teachers: a subordinate group consisting of members from a larger parent group. Often used in statistical or sociological contexts to identify specific sets within a population.

## Examples

- The researchers studied a small subgroup of the patients.
- Within the local gardening club, a subgroup of members focuses specifically on growing rare orchids.
- The data analysis revealed that a specific subgroup of participants responded much more favorably to the treatment than the general population, suggesting a genetic link to the drug's efficacy.

## Usage notes

- Often followed by the preposition 'of' to identify the parent group.

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