Holistic: meaning, definitions and examples

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holistic

 

[ həʊˈlɪstɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

approach to health

Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole. Emphasizing the importance of the whole and the interdependence of its parts.

Synonyms

complete, comprehensive, integrated.

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Word Description / Examples
holistic

Used when considering a system as a whole, rather than just focusing on individual parts. Often related to health, education, or approaches to problem-solving.

  • The holistic approach to medicine considers both mental and physical health
  • A holistic view of education includes not just academics, but also social and emotional development
comprehensive

Used when something covers everything that is relevant or necessary. Often used in the context of reports, studies, or plans.

  • The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the market trends
  • We need a comprehensive plan to address the issues in our community
integrated

Used when parts are combined to form a whole, often emphasizing harmony and unity. Commonly used in technology, systems, or educational approaches.

  • The new software is fully integrated with our existing systems
  • The school promotes an integrated curriculum that combines multiple subjects
complete

Used to describe something that is finished or includes all necessary parts. It emphasizes the fact that nothing is missing.

  • The project is now complete
  • He gave a complete list of ingredients needed for the recipe

Examples of usage

  • Holistic medicine considers the person as a whole, including physical, mental, and emotional aspects.
  • Holistic approach to education focuses on developing the student's mind, body, and spirit.

Translations

Translations of the word "holistic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 holístico

🇮🇳 समग्र

🇩🇪 ganzheitlich

🇮🇩 holistik

🇺🇦 цілісний

🇵🇱 holistyczny

🇯🇵 全体的

🇫🇷 holistique

🇪🇸 holístico

🇹🇷 bütünsel

🇰🇷 전체론적

🇸🇦 شامل

🇨🇿 holistický

🇸🇰 holistický

🇨🇳 整体的

🇸🇮 celostni

🇮🇸 heildrænn

🇰🇿 тұтас

🇬🇪 ჰოლისტიკური

🇦🇿 holistik

🇲🇽 holístico

Etymology

The term 'holistic' originated from the Greek word 'holos,' meaning whole. It was first introduced in the field of medicine in the 1920s to emphasize the importance of treating a person as a whole entity, rather than focusing solely on symptoms or specific body parts. The holistic approach has since expanded to various other disciplines, promoting interconnectedness and balance in all aspects of life.

See also: hole, holey.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,004, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.