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Surroundings Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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surroundings

[sษ™หˆraสŠndษชล‹z ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a natural environment

The things and conditions around a person or thing.

Synonyms

ambiance, environment, setting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
surroundings

Used when talking about the area or things around a place or person. It is often neutral and descriptive.

  • She felt anxious in unfamiliar surroundings.
  • The house is situated in beautiful, quiet surroundings.
environment

Has a broader application, often used in discussions about ecological conditions, workspaces, and general conditions affecting someone or something.

  • Factories must reduce their impact on the environment.
  • The work environment here is very collaborative and friendly.
setting

Commonly used to describe the place or conditions in which something happens, often related to stories, events, or scenes in literature and films.

  • The book's setting is in a small coastal town in the 1950s.
  • The wedding had a stunning outdoor setting by the lake.
ambiance

Used when referring to the mood, character, quality, tone, or atmosphere of an environment. Often used in relation to places like restaurants or rooms and has a more refined or cultured connotation.

  • The restaurant had an elegant ambiance with soft lighting and soothing music.
  • Candlelight adds to the romantic ambiance.

Examples of usage

  • He enjoyed the peaceful surroundings of the countryside.
  • She felt anxious in unfamiliar surroundings.
Context #2 | Noun

in a social setting

The area around a person or thing, especially when they are with other people.

Synonyms

ambiance, environment, setting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
surroundings

Usually refers to the immediate area around a person or thing. Can be used to talk about natural or built environments.

  • She was comforted by the familiar surroundings of her childhood home.
  • The hotel offers luxurious surroundings that are perfect for a relaxing vacation.
environment

Refers broadly to all the external factors affecting a living being, including natural, social, and built environments. Frequently used in discussions about ecology and sustainability.

  • We need to take steps to protect the environment from pollution.
  • A supportive work environment can increase employee productivity.
setting

Often used in storytelling or description to refer to the time and place where events occur. Can also mean the background or context of a situation.

  • The novel is set in a rural setting during the 19th century.
  • The wedding had a breathtaking mountain setting.
ambiance

Describes the mood, character, or atmosphere of a place. Often associated with restaurants, events, or any setting where mood is important.

  • The ambiance of the restaurant was perfect for a romantic dinner.
  • The soft lighting and jazz music created a relaxing ambiance.

Examples of usage

  • She felt uncomfortable in her surroundings at the party.
  • The children were playing happily in their surroundings.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Surroundings can significantly affect mood and behavior; bright colors can create a joyful atmosphere.
  • People often feel more relaxed in natural environments, supporting the notion of 'green therapy.'
  • The concept of 'environmental psychology' studies how physical spaces influence emotions and interactions.

Literature

  • In storytelling, surroundings help set the mood and character atmosphere, influencing how stories are perceived.
  • Famous works, like 'Pride and Prejudice,' use the setting to reflect character development and social themes.

Cultural Significance

  • Different cultures perceive and interact with their surroundings uniquely, often reflecting values and social norms.
  • Architectural styles often represent the surroundingsโ€™ influence, showcasing local materials and climatic adaptations.

Environmental Science

  • Surroundings include everything from ecosystems to urban landscapes, impacting biodiversity and resource availability.
  • Human activities have drastically altered natural surroundings through construction, pollution, and climate change.

Origin of 'surroundings'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French verb 'sourondre,' meaning to 'enclose' or 'surround.'
  • In Middle English, it evolved to mean the space around something, emphasizing protection and enclosure.

The word 'surroundings' comes from the verb 'surround', which has been in use since the late 15th century. The noun 'surroundings' was derived from the verb, and it first appeared in the English language in the mid-18th century. The concept of 'surroundings' has always been linked to the idea of the environment or context in which something or someone is placed.

See also: surrounding.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,117 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.