Biography Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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biography
[baษชหษษกrษfi ]
Definitions
written
An account of someone's life written by someone else, especially as a book or a movie.
Synonyms
autobiography, life story, memoir.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| biography |
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.
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| life story |
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.
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| memoir |
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.
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| autobiography |
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.
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Examples of usage
- He published his biography in 1991.
- The biography of Winston Churchill is very popular.
- She is currently writing a biography of a famous actress.
formal
The study of a person's life in the past.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| biography |
A recount of someone's life, similar to 'biography,' often used interchangeably in contexts involving a narrative of significant life events.
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| life history |
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.
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| life study |
Implies a more analytical or focused examination of someoneโs life, often for educational or research purposes. Might be used in academic or professional settings.
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Examples of usage
- Biography is an important aspect of historical research.
- The biographies of historical figures help us understand the past.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The first known biographies date back to ancient Egypt, where pharaohs had their life stories inscribed in tombs.
- One of the earliest famous biographies is of Alexander the Great, written by Arrian in the 2nd century AD.
Literature
- Biographies play a crucial role in literature by providing deeper insight into historical figures and their contributions.
- Some biographies are written in a narrative style that reads like a novel, making them more engaging.
Pop Culture
- Biographies have become popular in modern media, with many film and television adaptations highlighting the lives of notable figures.
- Celebrity biopics often explore both the triumphs and struggles of famous individuals, creating a personal connection with audiences.
Psychology
- Reading biographies can help improve empathy and understanding by exposing readers to different life experiences.
- Biographical narratives often reveal how personal histories shape individual choices and beliefs, enriching our understanding of human behavior.
Origin of 'biography'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek words 'bios' (life) and 'graphia' (writing).
- The term became popular in English during the 18th century, originally relating to the written accounts of famous people.
The word 'biography' originated from the combination of two Greek words: 'bios' meaning life and 'graphia' meaning writing. The concept of recording the lives of notable individuals has been present in human history for centuries, with biographies serving as a valuable source of information about the past. Biographies offer insights into the experiences, achievements, and challenges faced by different individuals, contributing to a better understanding of human life and history.
See also: bio, biologic, biologist, biology, biosphere, biota, biotech.