Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Geographic: meaning, definitions and examples

🗺️
Add to dictionary

geographic

 

[ˌdʒiː.əˈɡræf.ɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

physical features

Relating to the natural features of the earth's surface, such as mountains, rivers, and forests.

Synonyms

geographical, physical, topographic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
geographic

Used to describe something related to geography or the characteristics of a specific place. Common in academic and technical discussions.

  • The geographic distribution of plants varies greatly across the continent.
  • Geographic factors can influence economic development.
geographical

Often used interchangeably with 'geographic', but slightly more formal. Suitable for academic, technical, and formal discussions about locations and features.

  • The geographical features of the region include mountains, rivers, and lakes.
  • Geographical boundaries can affect political relations.
topographic

Highly technical term used to describe the detailed mapping and description of the surface features of a place, including elevation and landform shapes.

  • Topographic maps are essential for hikers and engineers.
  • The topographic survey revealed significant changes in the landscape.
physical

Refers to the natural, tangible features of the Earth, such as mountains, rivers, and valleys. It's broad and can fit into both scientific and casual usage.

  • The physical landscape of the region is stunning.
  • Physical characteristics like climate and terrain affect human settlement.

Examples of usage

  • Geographic features like mountains and rivers can greatly impact the climate of an area.
  • The study of geographic distribution of plants and animals is called biogeography.
Context #2 | Noun

study

The study of the physical features of the earth and its atmosphere, and of human activity as it affects and is affected by these.

Synonyms

cartography, geographical study, topography.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
geographic

This term is often used to describe anything related to the physical aspects of a region or place. It can be used in general conversations or in scientific studies.

  • The geographic features of the area include mountains and rivers.
  • We studied the geographic distribution of different species.
geographical study

This phrase is suitable when discussing scientific research focused on geography. It is often used in academic and research contexts.

  • Her geographical study focuses on the impact of climate change on coastal regions.
  • The geographical study revealed new insights into migration patterns.
cartography

This word is specifically used to refer to the practice and process of making maps. It's suitable in professional or academic settings related to mapping and geography.

  • He specialized in cartography during his studies in geography.
  • The ancient art of cartography has evolved with modern technology.
topography

This term refers to the arrangement of the natural and artificial physical features of an area. It is often used in contexts discussing detailed descriptions of terrain.

  • The topography of the mountainous region makes it difficult to build roads.
  • Before construction, a detailed study of the topography was conducted.

Examples of usage

  • She is majoring in geography and hopes to pursue a career in geographic information systems.
  • The Geographic Information System (GIS) is a powerful tool used in geographic analysis.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 'Geographic' comes from the Greek words 'geo', meaning earth, and 'graphia', meaning writing or description.
  • It has been used in the English language since the 15th century, when people began to take more interest in maps and places.
  • The word 'geography' was first coined in the 3rd century BC by the Greek scholar Eratosthenes.

History

  • In ancient times, geography helped explorers navigate the seas and discover new lands.
  • Maps created in the Middle Ages reflected not only geography but also social and political beliefs of the time.
  • The Age of Exploration in the 16th century led to significant advances in geographic knowledge and map-making.

Science

  • Geographic studies can provide insights into climate change by analyzing how different areas are affected by environmental change.
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are powerful tools used to analyze and visualize spatial data in various fields, from urban planning to disaster response.
  • The study of plate tectonics, which explains the movement of Earth's crust, is a key aspect of physical geography.

Culture

  • Regional geography explores how different cultures and communities arise due to their physical surroundings.
  • Certain geographic features, like mountains or rivers, can significantly influence the development of communities and civilizations.
  • In literature, many stories use geographic settings to enhance themes, such as isolation in 'Wuthering Heights' with its moors.

Pop Culture

  • Geographic locations often play a central role in films and television, creating familiar backdrops that enhance storytelling.
  • Song lyrics sometimes reference geographic features, like rivers or valleys, to evoke emotion and imagery.
  • Video games frequently incorporate detailed maps and geography to create immersive experiences for players.

Translations

Translations of the word "geographic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 geográfico

🇮🇳 भौगोलिक

🇩🇪 geografisch

🇮🇩 geografis

🇺🇦 географічний

🇵🇱 geograficzny

🇯🇵 地理的 (ちりてき)

🇫🇷 géographique

🇪🇸 geográfico

🇹🇷 coğrafi

🇰🇷 지리적인

🇸🇦 جغرافي

🇨🇿 geografický

🇸🇰 geografický

🇨🇳 地理的 (dìlǐ de)

🇸🇮 geografski

🇮🇸 landfræðilegur

🇰🇿 географиялық

🇬🇪 გეოგრაფიული

🇦🇿 coğrafi

🇲🇽 geográfico

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,375 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.