Fertility: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in biological and agricultural contexts to describe the ability to produce offspring or yield crops.

• The fertility of the soil ensures a good harvest
• The couple consulted a doctor about their fertility issues

More technical and scientific term used in ecology, biology, and demography to refer to the actual reproductive rate of an organism or population.

• The fecundity of the species is crucial for its survival
• Her research focused on the factors affecting female fecundity in different environments

Often used metaphorically to describe abundance or success in various areas such as work, creativity, or agriculture.

• The fruitfulness of their collaboration was evident in their innovative projects
• The fruitfulness of her garden was a result of years of care and dedication

Used to describe efficiency and the ability to produce a lot or achieve a lot in contexts like work, industry, or agriculture.

• The productiveness of the factory has increased with new technology
• His productiveness at work doubled after he started organizing his tasks better

Used in medical or agricultural contexts to refer to the ability to produce offspring or crops.

• The doctor specializes in treating fertility issues
• The fertility of the soil contributes to a good harvest

Rarely used and typically considered somewhat outdated; similar context to 'fertility.'

• The fertileness of the land was evident in the lush vegetation
• There's a debate about the fertileness of the hypothesis

Commonly used in formal or academic settings to describe abundant production of offspring or new growth.

• The fecundity of the rabbit population has led to a rapid increase in numbers
• Literature often celebrates the fecundity of nature

Suggests productivity and abundance in a metaphorical or literal sense. Often used in creative or spiritual contexts.

• The fruitfulness of their collaboration can be seen in the number of successful projects they completed
• The ancient texts speak of the fruitfulness of the land blessed by the gods

Discussing the ability of individuals or populations to produce offspring. Often used in biological and agricultural contexts.

• The fertility of the soil affects crop yields.
• Researchers are studying ways to improve human fertility.

A broader term that encompasses the ability to reproduce, often used in medical, biological, and environmental studies.

• The reproductive capacity of endangered animals is a major focus of conservation efforts.
• Age and health can significantly affect an individual's reproductive capacity.

Describes the potential reproductive capacity of an individual or population. This term is more technical and is often used in academic and scientific discussions.

• Researchers are measuring the fecundity of different species to understand their population dynamics.
• Fecundity can vary greatly among individuals.

Refers to the number of live births per 1,000 individuals in a population per year. Commonly used in demographics and public health.

• The birth rate in the country has been steadily declining over the past decade.
• Policies to increase the birth rate are being considered by the government.