History: meaning, definitions and examples

Used for describing significant events or periods from the past, often studied to understand development and transformation over time.

• She has a degree in European history.
• The history of this ancient city is fascinating.

A general term for occurrences or incidents that have happened in the past, often used in everyday conversation.

• We discussed past events at the company meeting.
• Past events can influence current decisions.

Used for a detailed and factual account of events in the order they occurred, often in a narrative form.

• The book chronicles the rise and fall of the Roman Empire.
• He kept a chronicle of his travels across Asia.

Refers to the documentation or preservation of information, often used in legal, academic, or official contexts.

• The department keeps a detailed record of all transactions.
• Historical records reveal much about ancient civilizations.

Suitable for discussing events, people, or periods from the past, especially in a broad or generalized sense. Often used in educational, academic, or analytical settings.

• The history of ancient Rome is fascinating.
• She studied history at university.

Mostly used in casual or conversational contexts to describe someone's personal history and experiences in a narrative form. Less formal than 'autobiography' or 'memoir'.

• He shared his life story at the dinner party.
• I love hearing people's life stories and what they have been through.

Appropriate when referring to a book or written work about someone's life, authored by the subject themselves. Used when specific focus is on personal history and experiences.

• His autobiography details his journey from poverty to success.
• She is currently working on her autobiography.

Used for a written account of specific aspects or episodes of someone's life, often by the subject themselves. Typically more focused and less comprehensive than an autobiography, often emphasizing personal reflection.

• Her memoir about growing up during the war is very touching.
• He published a memoir that highlights his career in politics.