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Civilisation: meaning, definitions and examples

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civilisation

 

[ˌsɪv.ə.laɪˈzeɪ.ʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

modern society

Civilisation refers to an advanced stage of human social development and organization, usually characterized by complex cultural, technological, and political structures. It involves the establishment of cities, writing systems, art, and other cultural achievements.

Synonyms

community, culture, society.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
civilisation

Used to refer to advanced stages of human social development, often encompassing complex political, economic, and social structures.

  • The ancient Egyptian civilisation made significant contributions to science and architecture.
  • The fall of the Roman civilisation marked a significant turning point in European history.
society

Refers to a large group of people who live together in a more or less ordered community, often encompassing multiple communities, cultures, and social institutions.

  • Modern society faces numerous challenges, such as climate change and economic inequality.
  • In ancient societies, social roles were often very clearly defined.
culture

Used to describe the ideas, customs, social behaviors, and artifacts of a particular people during a particular time; often refers to art, music, literature, and traditions.

  • Japanese culture is known for its tea ceremonies and martial arts.
  • Hip-hop culture has had a significant influence on modern music.
community

Used to describe a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common, often implying a smaller and more intimate group.

  • The local community came together to clean up the park.
  • There's a strong sense of community in this neighborhood.

Examples of usage

  • The ancient Egyptians were known for their highly developed civilisation.
  • The collapse of the Mayan civilisation is still a topic of debate among historians.
Context #2 | Noun

polite behavior

Civilisation can also refer to the quality of being polite and well-mannered in social interactions. It involves showing respect, consideration, and courtesy towards others.

Synonyms

courtesy, manners, politeness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
civilisation

Use this word when discussing advanced human societies with complex structures, culture, and technology.

  • The ancient Egyptian civilisation is known for its remarkable achievements in architecture and writing
  • The collapse of the Roman civilisation had a profound impact on European history
politeness

This word emphasizes a respectful and considerate attitude in speech and actions.

  • Her politeness in the meeting was appreciated by everyone
  • Politeness can help avoid misunderstandings and conflicts
courtesy

This word is suitable when referring to respectful and considerate behavior towards others.

  • He showed great courtesy by holding the door open for the elderly lady
  • Courtesy is essential when communicating with customers in a professional setting
manners

This word is appropriate when talking about socially acceptable behaviors and customs.

  • Good manners can make a great first impression
  • It is important to teach children good manners, such as saying 'please' and 'thank you'

Examples of usage

  • His civilisation towards the guests impressed everyone at the party.
  • She always conducts herself with great civilisation in public.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'civilis', meaning 'pertaining to a citizen', highlighting the importance of people in a society.
  • It evolved through Old French 'civilisation' in the 18th century, which emphasized the aspect of culture and refinement.
  • In early usage, it referred specifically to refined manners and culture, rather than the society as a whole.

Historical Context

  • The earliest known civilisations began in Mesopotamia around 3500 BCE, with the development of writing and complex structures.
  • Ancient Egyptian civilisation flourished along the Nile, notable for its contributions to mathematics, medicine, and architecture.
  • The Indus Valley civilisation introduced urban planning with sophisticated drainage systems and grid layouts in cities.

Cultural Significance

  • Civilisations have been marked by their art, philosophy, and religion, which reflect the values and beliefs of the people.
  • The Renaissance period saw a revival of interest in classical civilisations, influencing modern ideas of art and humanism.
  • Cultural exchange among civilisations has enriched practices, from the Silk Road connecting East and West to colonial encounters.

Syntax and Usage

  • The term often contrasts with 'barbarism', marking a divide between perceived 'cultured' and 'uncultured' societies throughout history.
  • In discussions about development, the term can highlight the state of order versus chaos, depending on varying historical perspectives.
  • Civilisation can refer to both a specific society (like Roman civilisation) or the abstract concept of advancement and culture.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like Rousseau and Locke debated the concept of civilisation, particularly regarding its effects on human nature and society.
  • Civilisation is often linked to ideas of progress, though some thinkers argue that it can lead to conflict and inequality.
  • The Enlightenment period expanded thoughts on civilisation, framing it as a goal for humanity to strive toward for greater freedom and reason.

Translations

Translations of the word "civilisation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 civilização

🇮🇳 सभ्यता

🇩🇪 Zivilisation

🇮🇩 peradaban

🇺🇦 цивілізація

🇵🇱 cywilizacja

🇯🇵 文明 (ぶんめい)

🇫🇷 civilisation

🇪🇸 civilización

🇹🇷 medeniyet

🇰🇷 문명

🇸🇦 حضارة

🇨🇿 civilizace

🇸🇰 civilizácia

🇨🇳 文明 (wénmíng)

🇸🇮 civilizacija

🇮🇸 siðmenning

🇰🇿 өркениет

🇬🇪 ცივილიზაცია

🇦🇿 sivilizasiya

🇲🇽 civilización

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,449, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.