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Introduction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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introduction

[หŒษชntrษ™หˆdสŒkสƒ(ษ™)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

formal

The action of introducing something. A formal presentation of one person to another, in which each is told the other's name. A person's first experience of a subject or situation.

Synonyms

inauguration, initiation, presentation.

Examples of usage

  • The introduction of new technology has revolutionized the way we live.
  • Let me make the introduction - this is John, our new colleague.
  • My introduction to the world of finance was both exciting and challenging.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

The opening part of a speech, book, or play. A preliminary explanation or introductory chapter.

Synonyms

foreword, preface, prologue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
introduction

Use this when starting any written work or speech to set the stage or give an overview of what will follow.

  • The introduction of this book provides a summary of the key concepts.
  • I will give a brief introduction before our meeting begins.
preface

This section precedes the main text and is written by the author to explain why they wrote the book, how it was developed, or to acknowledge contributions.

  • In the preface, the author shares her journey of writing the novel.
  • The preface gives insights into the challenges faced during the research.
prologue

Commonly used in fiction, particularly plays, to set the scene for the story by providing background information or earlier events. Often a brief narrative before the main plot begins.

  • The prologue in the play introduces the history of the two feuding families.
  • In the prologue, the mysterious events that occurred years ago are revealed.
foreword

This is often written by someone other than the author, typically an expert or a notable figure, to endorse or provide a background for the main text.

  • The foreword by the renowned scientist adds credibility to the author's work.
  • In the foreword, the professor explains the significance of the research.

Examples of usage

  • The introduction of the novel sets the tone for the rest of the story.
  • Let's skip the introduction and get straight to the main point.
Context #3 | Noun

music

A section or movement at the beginning of a piece of music.

Synonyms

overture, prelude.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
introduction

This word is generally used to describe the beginning section of any piece of writing, speech, or presentation where the main topics are introduced.

  • In the introduction of his book, he discusses the main themes
  • Her introduction to the conference was warmly received
prelude

Commonly used to refer to an introductory piece of music or an event that comes before and signals the approach of another event, often suggesting something more significant to follow.

  • The piano prelude set the tone for the evening's concert
  • Their argument was just a prelude to the bigger fight that followed
overture

Often used in a musical context, particularly classical music, to describe an instrumental introduction to an opera, ballet, or other musical work. It can also mean an initial proposal or gesture towards a relationship or agreement.

  • The orchestra played a beautiful overture to the opera
  • He made an overture to form a business partnership

Examples of usage

  • The introduction to the symphony was beautifully composed.
Context #4 | Noun

computing

The preliminary part of a program or data file that explains its purpose or operation.

Synonyms

explanation, overview.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
introduction

Used when beginning a piece of writing, speech, or presentation, to provide an initial section that presents the topic and sets the tone.

  • In the introduction of her essay, she outlined the main arguments.
  • The introduction of the report offers a brief summary of the findings.
overview

Used to describe a brief and general summary of a larger body of work or subject matter, often to provide a quick insight or summary.

  • The first chapter provides an overview of the book's main themes.
  • During the meeting, she gave an overview of the project's status.
explanation

Appropriate when providing a detailed account or clarification of a particular topic or concept.

  • He gave a clear explanation of how the new software works.
  • The teacher's explanation helped the students understand the complex theory.

Examples of usage

  • The software's introduction provides an overview of its features and functions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, an introduction often summarizes the main themes and objectives of the written work.
  • Classic novels sometimes start with an introduction that provides context about the author or the historical background.
  • Authors use introductions to prepare readers for what to expect in the rest of the book, enhancing comprehension.

Education

  • In classrooms, introductions are crucial for establishing a rapport between teachers and students, helping create a comfortable learning environment.
  • Curriculum guides often start with an introduction to outline goals and key concepts for students.
  • Educational presentations also typically begin with an introduction to outline topics and engage the audience right away.

Psychology

  • First impressions during introductions can shape long-term relationships, as people often form quick opinions based on initial encounters.
  • Greeting someone with a firm handshake and eye contact can improve the effectiveness of an introduction, as these behaviors convey confidence.
  • Social psychologists study how introductions affect group dynamics and influence people's willingness to participate.

Pop Culture

  • Famous songs often have a catchy introduction that hooks the listener before diving into the lyrics.
  • In movies, the introduction sets the tone, introducing main characters and key conflicts that drive the plot.
  • Television shows frequently use introductions to recap previous episodes, helping viewers before the start of a new one.

Origin of 'introduction'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'introductio', which means 'a bringing in'.
  • In Old French, it became 'introduction', maintaining its original essence of introducing or presenting.
  • The use of the term dates back to the 14th century, mainly for formal introductions in letters or speeches.

The word 'introduction' originates from the Latin word 'introductionem', derived from 'introductio' meaning 'a leading in'. The term has been used in English since the late 14th century, evolving to its current usage in various contexts.

See also: introducing, introductory, reintroduce.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,783, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.