ENGLISH
REFERENCE

thematic

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //θiˈmætɪk// UK //θiːmˈætɪk// the·mat·ic

adj. relating to a specific subject or main idea that repeats in a piece of work. You use this when things are organized by topic rather than by time.

adj. relating to or based on a particular theme or subject. Often describes the organization of information or the recurring motifs in an artistic work.


SIMPLE

The museum has a thematic display about ancient ships.

CONTEXTUAL

Instead of following a timeline, the history book is organized into thematic chapters like 'Trade' and 'War'.

COMPLEX

The composer uses thematic development to transform a simple three-note melody into a complex orchestral climax that mirrors the protagonist's emotional journey.

Antonyms
Origin

From Ancient Greek θεματικός (thematikós), from θέμα (théma, “theme”). Equivalent to theme + -atic.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun. Frequently pairs with 'analysis', 'organization', or 'approach'.

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