Description Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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description
[dɪˈskrɪpʃən ]
Definitions
in writing
A statement or account that describes something or someone, usually in detail.
Synonyms
account, explanation, narrative.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| description |
Use when you need to detail the characteristics, features, or appearance of something or someone.
|
| account |
Use when summarizing or reporting an event or series of events, often from a personal perspective.
|
| narrative |
Use when telling a story or recounting events, often with a focus on structure and coherence.
|
| explanation |
Use when providing reasons or clarifications about how something works or why something happened.
|
Examples of usage
- He gave a detailed description of the crime scene.
- The job description outlined the responsibilities and requirements for the position.
in art
The portrayal or representation of something in a work of art.
Synonyms
depiction, portrayal, representation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| description |
Used when providing a detailed account or explanation of something, often in written or spoken form.
|
| depiction |
Used when referring to how something is shown in art, literature, or another form of media, often focusing on the visual or narrative representation.
|
| representation |
Used when referring to the general presentation or depiction of something, especially in art, literature, or media. It can also describe how someone acts or speaks on behalf of others.
|
| portrayal |
Used when discussing how someone or something is represented, especially in performance or literature, often with an emphasis on characterization.
|
Examples of usage
- The artist's description of the sunset was breathtaking.
- The book provides vivid descriptions of the landscapes.
in science
A spoken or written representation or account of a process, system, or event.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| description |
Used to provide detailed information about the characteristics, appearance, or qualities of something or someone.
|
| explanation |
Used to clarify reasons or causes, often answering 'why' or 'how' questions.
|
| account |
Refers to a narrative or record of events, usually providing a personal perspective or witness testimony. Can sometimes imply trustworthiness.
|
| report |
A formal or official document or statement, often presenting information or findings in a structured manner. Can imply factual and objective content.
|
Examples of usage
- The scientist gave a detailed description of the experiment.
- The textbook provides clear descriptions of complex scientific concepts.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Descriptive writing is a key literary technique used to create vivid imagery and engage the reader's senses.
- Authors like Charles Dickens and Virginia Woolf are known for their rich, descriptive passages that bring characters and settings to life.
- In poetry, descriptions often use metaphors and similes to enhance emotions and imagery.
Art
- Artwork can be 'described' in terms of color, form, and technique, helping viewers interpret the artist's message.
- Art critics often write detailed descriptions to convey the experience of viewing a piece, emphasizing its emotional impact.
- Visual description plays a significant role in fields like graphic design and architecture, where clarity is vital.
Communication
- In everyday communication, effective description helps convey thoughts and feelings clearly, improving understanding between people.
- Descriptive language can also foster creativity, allowing individuals to share unique perspectives on experiences.
- In advertising, descriptions create compelling narratives about products, influencing consumer choices.
Psychology
- Research shows that when we describe our emotions, it can help improve our emotional well-being and processing.
- Studies indicate that individuals who engage in descriptive journaling experience increased self-awareness and reduced anxiety.
- Descriptive memories, or vivid recollections of past experiences, often have a stronger emotional impact than non-descriptive memories.
Origin of 'description'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'descriptio', which means 'to write down or represent'.
- It entered Middle English in the 14th century, signifying writing about something in detail.
- Many words in English related to 'description', like 'describe' and 'descriptive', share common Latin roots.
The word 'description' originated from the Latin word 'descriptio', which means 'a representation in words'. Over time, it evolved to encompass various meanings related to detailing or portraying something. The usage of 'description' has been prevalent in literature, art, and science for centuries, highlighting its importance in communication and expression.
See also: describable, describe, describing, descriptive, descriptor.