Overview Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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overview

[ˈoʊvərˌvjuː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

general

A general summary or survey of a subject, especially when presented in outline form.

Synonyms

outline, summary, survey.

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Word Description / Examples
overview

This word has been repeated, and thus omitted. See the first entry for details.

summary

A concise statement or account of the main points of a text, speech, or event. Used in various contexts to provide a short version of something longer.

  • He wrote a summary of the book for his report.
  • The meeting ended with a summary of key decisions.
outline

A structured description of the main points or features of something. Often used in academic writing, presentations, or planning stages.

  • She shared the outline of her thesis with her advisor.
  • The outline of the presentation helped keep the discussion on track.
survey

A comprehensive review or study of a subject, often involving the collection and analysis of data. Commonly used in research, marketing, and social sciences.

  • The company conducted a survey to understand customer satisfaction.
  • A survey of the landscape showed several potential sites for the new building.

Examples of usage

  • Let me give you a quick overview of the project.
  • She provided an overview of the company's financial situation.
  • The professor began the lecture with an overview of the course syllabus.

Translations

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

Origin of 'overview'

The word 'overview' originated in the mid 19th century, formed by combining 'over' and 'view'. It reflects the idea of looking at something from above or in a general way to gain an understanding of the whole subject.


See also: interview, preview, review, view, viewable, viewer, viewers, viewership, viewfinder, viewing, viewpoint, views.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,986 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.