Microscopic: meaning, definitions and examples

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microscopic

 

[ maɪkrəˈskɒpɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

viewed through a microscope

So small as to be visible only with a microscope. Often used in a figurative sense to describe something extremely tiny or insignificant.

Synonyms

infinitesimal, minuscule, tiny

Examples of usage

  • The bacteria were so microscopic that they could only be seen under a microscope.
  • The details of the painting were so microscopic that you needed a magnifying glass to appreciate them.
  • The microscopic organisms in the pond water were fascinating to observe.
  • The scientist discovered a new species of microscopic insect living in the rainforest.
  • Even the slightest change in temperature can have a microscopic effect on the chemical reaction.
Context #2 | Adjective

extremely detailed or precise

Involving or dealing with detailed information or events that are very specific or precise.

Synonyms

detailed, precise, thorough

Examples of usage

  • The detective conducted a microscopic examination of the crime scene to find any clues.
  • The report provided a microscopic analysis of the factors contributing to the economic downturn.
  • The artist's painting was a masterpiece of microscopic detail, capturing every nuance of the landscape.
  • His analysis of the data was so microscopic that he was able to identify the exact cause of the problem.
  • She had a microscopic memory, able to recall even the tiniest details of past events.

Translations

Translations of the word "microscopic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 microscópico

🇮🇳 सूक्ष्मदर्शी

🇩🇪 mikroskopisch

🇮🇩 mikroskopis

🇺🇦 мікроскопічний

🇵🇱 mikroskopijny

🇯🇵 顕微鏡の

🇫🇷 microscopique

🇪🇸 microscópico

🇹🇷 mikroskobik

🇰🇷 현미경의

🇸🇦 مجهري

🇨🇿 mikroskopický

🇸🇰 mikroskopický

🇨🇳 微观的

🇸🇮 mikroskopski

🇮🇸 smásjá

🇰🇿 микроскопиялық

🇬🇪 მიკროსკოპული

🇦🇿 mikroskopik

🇲🇽 microscópico

Word origin

The word 'microscopic' originated from the combination of the Greek word 'mikros' meaning small and the English word 'scope'. It first appeared in the early 19th century and has since been used to describe things that are extremely small or detailed. The term has become commonly associated with the world of science and technology, particularly in the fields of biology, chemistry, and physics.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,400 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.