Structure: meaning, definitions and examples

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structure

[ˈstrʌk.tʃər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

building

The arrangement of and relations between the parts or elements of something complex.

Synonyms

arrangement, composition, layout, organization.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
structure	Use 'structure' to refer to the overall format or organization of parts. It can apply to various contexts including physical buildings and abstract systems. The structure of the report needs to be revised. They admired the structure of the ancient ruins.
organization	'Organization' is used when discussing the systematic arrangement or structure of a group, especially in social or corporate settings. The organization of the charity event was impressive. The new software helps with the organization of files.
arrangement	'Arrangement' is used to describe the placement or organization of items or people in a specific order or configuration. Often used in social, musical, or decorative contexts. The arrangement of flowers on the table was beautiful. They made an arrangement to meet at noon.
layout	'Layout' should be used when referring to the detailed plan or positioning of elements, often in design or printing contexts. He was responsible for the layout of the magazine. The layout of the website needs to be user-friendly.
composition	Use 'composition' to describe the makeup or assembly of elements or ingredients. Commonly used in artistic, musical, and scientific contexts. The composition of the painting includes vibrant colors. The chemical composition of the substance is unknown.

Examples of usage

The structure of the building was very impressive.
She studied the structure of the human brain in her research.
The structure of the organization needed to be reevaluated.
The team analyzed the market structure before launching the new product.
The crystal structure of the mineral was examined under the microscope.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

sentence

To arrange according to a plan; to give a pattern or organization to.

Synonyms

arrange, format, organize, systematize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
structure	Used when talking about creating a framework or the overall arrangement of parts. The essay should be well-structured to make it easy to follow. The company must structure its departments to improve efficiency.
organize	Used when talking about making plans, arranging tasks, or creating order in physical or abstract spaces. This word often conveys a sense of better efficiency and management. She helps organize community events every week. We need to organize our files to find things more easily.
arrange	Normally used when talking about putting things in a specific order or sequence. She arranged the books by genre on the shelf. We need to arrange the chairs before the meeting.
format	Used when talking about adapting something to a specific pattern, style, or design, often in digital or written content. Please format the document according to the guidelines. He is trying to format the hard drive.
systematize	Used when talking about creating or applying a system to manage tasks, data, processes, etc. It often implies more technical or detailed work. The manager wants to systematize the workflow to reduce errors. They need to systematize their approach to data collection.

Examples of usage

She structured her argument carefully to persuade the audience.
The essay was well-structured with a clear introduction and conclusion.
He structured the data in a way that made it easy to understand.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from the Latin 'structura', meaning 'a fitting together'.
Its earliest use in English dates back to the 14th century, referring to physical constructions.
Over time, the term expanded to describe not just buildings, but systems and ideas.

Architecture

Structures like castles and skyscrapers have evolved, showcasing advancements in engineering.
The iconic Eiffel Tower, completed in 1889, was initially criticized but is now a beloved symbol of France.
Sustainable architecture focuses on creating structures that are environmentally friendly, blending nature with modern design.

Science

In biology, the structure of DNA reveals how genetic information is stored and passed on.
Geological structures, such as mountains and valleys, are formed over millions of years through natural processes.
Molecular structure determines the properties of substances, affecting everything from taste to texture.

Psychology

Mental structures help us organize and interpret experiences and information.
Theories in psychology often explore how structured environments impact behavior and learning.
Schemas are cognitive structures that help individuals make sense of the world around them.

Literature

Narrative structure refers to how a story is organized, including the sequence of events.
Classic storytelling often follows a structured format: introduction, conflict, climax, and resolution.
Poetic structures, like sonnets, have specific rules on rhyme and meter, influencing the flow of the poem.

Translations

Translations of the word "structure" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estrutura

🇮🇳 संरचना

🇩🇪 Struktur

🇮🇩 struktur

🇺🇦 структура

🇵🇱 struktura

🇯🇵 構造

🇫🇷 structure

🇪🇸 estructura

🇹🇷 yapı

🇰🇷 구조

🇸🇦 هيكل

🇨🇿 struktura

🇸🇰 štruktúra

🇨🇳 结构

🇸🇮 struktura

🇮🇸 uppbygging

🇰🇿 құрылым

🇬🇪 სტრუქტურა

🇦🇿 struktur

🇲🇽 estructura

Word Frequency Rank

With position #448, 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.

...
445 condition
446 population
447 saw
448 structure
449 community
450 range
451 call
...