History: meaning, definitions and examples

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history

[ˈhɪstəri ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

study

The study of past events, particularly in human affairs.

Synonyms

chronicle, past events, record.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
history	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.
past events	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.
chronicle	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.
record	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.

Examples of usage

History is a fascinating subject that allows us to learn from the mistakes and successes of those who came before us.
Studying history helps us understand how societies have evolved over time.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

personal

A record of past events and experiences in one's own life.

Synonyms

autobiography, life story, memoir.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
history	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.
life story	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.
autobiography	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.
memoir	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.

Examples of usage

Keeping a journal is a great way to document your personal history.
Her personal history revealed a lot about her character and motivations.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek word 'historia,' meaning 'inquiry' or 'knowledge acquired by investigation.'
In ancient Greek culture, history was often recounted orally before being written down, transitioning into literature.
The term has evolved through centuries, reflecting different ways of knowing and understanding our past.

Cultural Significance

Different cultures have unique historical narratives that shape their identity and values.
Many societies commemorate historical events through festivals, monuments, and literature, keeping the past alive.
History often informs current politics, ethics, and social norms, influencing how communities interact today.

Science of History

Historians use primary sources like letters, diaries, and official documents to piece together narratives of the past.
Archaeology is a key branch that uses material remains to understand historical contexts and human behaviors.
The study of history involves various disciplines, including sociology, anthropology, and geography, to create a fuller picture.

Impact of Technology

Advancements like the printing press made history more accessible, leading to literacy booms in various societies.
Digital platforms now allow for the sharing of historical data, making it easier to research and engage with the past.
Modern history is often influenced by media, where movies and documentaries bring historical events to life for wider audiences.

Major Events

The signing of the Magna Carta in 1215 is a cornerstone in the development of modern democracy.
Significant revolutions, such as the French and American Revolutions, reshaped the world, introducing ideas of liberty and rights.
The World Wars dramatically altered national boundaries, economies, and societies, impacting generations.

Translations

Translations of the word "history" in other languages:

🇵🇹 história

🇮🇳 इतिहास

🇩🇪 Geschichte

🇮🇩 sejarah

🇺🇦 історія

🇵🇱 historia

🇯🇵 歴史 (れきし)

🇫🇷 histoire

🇪🇸 historia

🇹🇷 tarih

🇰🇷 역사 (yeoksa)

🇸🇦 تاريخ

🇨🇿 historie

🇸🇰 história

🇨🇳 历史 (lìshǐ)

🇸🇮 zgodovina

🇮🇸 saga

🇰🇿 тарих

🇬🇪 ისტორია (istoria)

🇦🇿 tarix

🇲🇽 historia

Word Frequency Rank

With position #330, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.

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327 mind
328 cause
329 method
330 history
331 class
332 short
333 problems
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