Chronology Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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chronology
[krəˈnɒlədʒi ]
Definitions
study of time
Chronology is the science of arranging events in their order of occurrence in time. In other words, it is the study of the sequence of past events. Chronology is crucial for historians to accurately record and understand the timeline of events.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| chronology |
Best used when discussing the arrangement of events in the order they occurred, often in historical or scientific contexts.
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| timeline |
Typically refers to a graphical or written representation that displays events along a line to show their chronological order, often used in planning, history, and project management.
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| sequence |
Used when discussing a specific arrangement where each item follows another, typically in a logical or linear progression. This is often used in scientific, mathematical, or instructional contexts.
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| order |
Generally refers to the arrangement or sequence of objects, events, or steps. It can be used in various contexts, ranging from instructions to organizational systems.
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Examples of usage
- The chronology of ancient civilizations is a complex field of study.
- He meticulously arranged the chronology of the historical documents.
historical record
Chronology can also refer to a historical record of events, arranged in the order of their occurrence. This type of chronology is often found in history books, where events are presented in a sequential manner.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| chronology |
When you need to describe the order of events in time, focusing on their sequential arrangement.
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| timeline |
When you want to represent a sequence of events visually or outline key events in a clear and concise manner.
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| record |
When referring to documented information about past events, often in an official or formal capacity.
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| history |
When discussing past events or the study of past events more broadly, including cultural, social, and political aspects.
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Examples of usage
- The chronology in the textbook helped students understand the historical timeline.
- The museum displayed a detailed chronology of the war events.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In geology, chronology helps scientists understand Earth's history through layers of rocks and fossils.
- Chronological dating is crucial for paleontologists to accurately place dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures in a timeline.
Literature
- Many stories are told in a chronological order to create a clear narrative, helping readers follow character development.
- Famous authors, like Charles Dickens, often used non-linear chronology, playing with time to build suspense in their novels.
History
- Historians use chronology to organize major events, such as wars or treaties, helping us understand cause and effect.
- Timelines are visual tools used to represent historical events chronologically, making complex histories easier to comprehend.
Pop Culture
- In many movies and TV shows, events may be shown out of order, making chronological storytelling a method for creating intrigue.
- Video games sometimes use chronological sequences in missions to deepen the storyline and engage players through time travel.
Origin of 'chronology'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'chronos', meaning 'time', and 'logia', meaning 'study' or 'discourse'.
- First recorded in the 16th century, it initially referred to the study of historical events in the sequence they occurred.
The word 'chronology' originated from the Greek word 'khronos,' meaning time, and 'logia,' meaning study. It has been used in English since the 16th century to refer to the science or study of time and the arrangement of events in their order of occurrence. Chronology plays a vital role in various fields such as history, archaeology, and paleontology, helping scholars and researchers understand the sequence of past events.