Word
thematic
Phoneticsthe·mat·ic
US/θiˈmætɪk/
UK/θiːmˈætɪk/
Definition
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.
Examples
“The museum has a thematic display about ancient ships.”
“Instead of following a timeline, the history book is organized into thematic chapters like 'Trade' and 'War'.”
“The composer uses thematic development to transform a simple three-note melody into a complex orchestral climax that mirrors the protagonist's emotional journey.”
Examples
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.”
Usage
Typically used attributively before a noun. Frequently pairs with 'analysis', 'organization', or 'approach'.
Real-World Examples
“The musician’s fourth album, The Gem, finds its place between these musical and thematic worlds.” Etymology
From Ancient Greek θεματικός (thematikós), from θέμα (théma, “theme”). Equivalent to theme + -atic.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
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englishreference.com/q/thematic