Biography: meaning, definitions and examples

A biography is a detailed description or account of someone's life written by someone else. It includes various aspects of the person's life such as their childhood, career, relationships, and achievements.

• I just finished reading a biography of Albert Einstein.
• The biography of Steve Jobs provides insights into his business acumen and personal life.

A life story is a generally less formal term that refers to an account of a person's life, which can be written by the individual or someone else. It's commonly used in casual conversations or less formal contexts.

• During the interview, he shared his life story with the audience.
• She wrote a blog post sharing her life story.

A memoir is a collection of memories that an individual writes about moments or events, both public or private, that took place in the author's life. It is more focused on personal experiences and emotions than a full life account.

• Michelle Obama's memoir ‘Becoming’ has become very popular.
• He decided to publish a memoir to share the highs and lows of his career.

An autobiography is a self-written account of the author's life. It includes personal insights and experiences, and is written from the author's perspective.

• Malala Yousafzai wrote an autobiography about her fight for girls' education.
• I am planning to read an autobiography by Nelson Mandela.

A recount of someone's life, similar to 'biography,' often used interchangeably in contexts involving a narrative of significant life events.

• The biography of Vincent van Gogh includes letters he wrote to his brother
• Her biography covers her entire career in the fashion industry

A broader, more informal term that can encompass all events in a person's life, including trivial and significant ones. Often used in academic, social studies, or psychological contexts.

• We studied the life history of ancient civilizations in our history class
• His life history is full of travels and adventures

Implies a more analytical or focused examination of someone’s life, often for educational or research purposes. Might be used in academic or professional settings.

• Her life study of Albert Einstein provided new insights into his thinking process
• The professor's life study on Martin Luther King Jr
• sheds new light on the civil rights movement