Understudied: meaning, definitions and examples

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understudied

 

[ˌʌndərˈstʌdid ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

academic research

The term 'understudied' refers to a subject, area, or phenomenon that has not received sufficient attention or examination in academic research or literature. This lack of study may lead to a gap in knowledge, limiting our understanding of the topic. Understudied topics often include marginalized groups, lesser-known regions, or niche subjects that do not attract mainstream interest. Addressing such gaps can be crucial for a comprehensive understanding of various fields.

Synonyms

neglected, overlooked, unexamined.

Examples of usage

  • The effects of climate change on marine life are understudied.
  • Many cultural practices in isolated communities remain understudied.
  • Understudied diseases can pose risks to public health.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term combines 'under' meaning 'not enough' and 'study,' which comes from the Latin 'studium', meaning 'zeal or effort.'
  • First recorded use of the word dates back to the 20th century, reflecting a growing emphasis on research and knowledge.
  • Understudied ideas often correlate with new fields of science and social studies lacking sufficient research.

Education

  • Certain subjects like indigenous languages and lesser-known cultures are often considered understudied in academic circles.
  • A lack of funding and resources can contribute to many critical areas of study remaining understudied.
  • Understudied topics can lead to gaps in knowledge that affect decision-making in policy and practice.

Science

  • Many ecosystems, especially in remote areas, are understudied, indicating a need for more research on biodiversity.
  • Certain mental health issues still remain understudied compared to more mainstream conditions, influencing treatment options.
  • New diseases can be understudied initially, leading to challenges in effective public health responses.

Pop Culture

  • In film and theatre, understudies play crucial roles, often stepping into performances without prior extensive experience.
  • Books and films focusing on understudied historical events can reshape public perception and understanding.
  • Some actors have garnered recognition for their talent despite originally being cast as understudies.

Psychology

  • There is a psychological phenomenon called the 'neglect of the obvious,' where clear issues go understudied due to overconfidence in existing knowledge.
  • Understudied areas in psychology can lead to misconceptions or stereotypes that persist in society.
  • Research shows that addressing understudied psychological issues can lead to significant societal advancements.

Translations

Translations of the word "understudied" in other languages:

🇵🇹 subestimado

🇮🇳 कम अध्ययन किया गया

🇩🇪 unterstudiert

🇮🇩 kurang dipelajari

🇺🇦 недостатньо вивчений

🇵🇱 niedostatecznie badany

🇯🇵 十分に研究されていない

🇫🇷 sous-étudié

🇪🇸 poco estudiado

🇹🇷 yetersiz çalışılmış

🇰🇷 부족하게 연구된

🇸🇦 غير مدروس بشكل كافٍ

🇨🇿 nedostatečně studovaný

🇸🇰 nedostatočne študovaný

🇨🇳 研究不足的

🇸🇮 nezadostno proučevano

🇮🇸 of lítið rannsakað

🇰🇿 жеткілікті зерттелмеген

🇬🇪 არასაკმარისი შესწავლილი

🇦🇿 yetərincə öyrənilməmiş

🇲🇽 poco estudiado

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,496, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.