Word
anthropological
Meanings
Related to anthropology or to the study of humans, their cultures, and societies.
Using the methods or viewpoint of anthropology, especially in analyzing cultural practices and meanings.
Definition
Relating to the scientific study of human beings, their societies, cultures, and origins.
Anthropological describes anything connected to anthropology, the academic study of humans across time and place. It often refers to research methods, evidence, or perspectives that examine culture, social life, language, and human evolution. In writing, it commonly signals an analytical focus on people’s practices and meanings within specific contexts.
Examples
- Her anthropological approach treated the office rituals as a culture worth describing rather than a set of rules to criticize.
- I found the book compelling because its anthropological lens explained how everyday habits carry social meaning.
- They adopted an anthropological perspective during the workshop, paying attention to who spoke, who listened, and why it mattered.
- The documentary remains anthropological in tone, focusing on observation and context instead of quick judgments.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse anthropological with archaeological; anthropological is about humans and cultures (often living communities), while archaeological focuses on material remains from the past.
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.