A2noun2K

Biology

UK /["/baɪˈɒlədʒi/"]/US /["/baɪˈɑːlədʒi/"]/

Definition

the scientific study of the life and structure of plants and animals

In simple words: The study of living things and how they work.

Examples

  • a degree in biology
  • molecular/evolutionary biology
  • a biology teacher/class/textbook
  • She's a professor of biology at Stanford.
  • How far is human nature determined by biology?
  • the biology of marine animals

Usage notes

Used in academic contexts, such as school subjects or scientific discussions. Less common in everyday conversation unless discussing health or environment.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'bio' as in 'life' — biology is the study of life.

Collocations

  • cellular
  • developmental
  • environmental
  • cellular
  • developmental
  • environmental

Synonyms

  • life science
  • biological science
  • natural science

Antonyms

  • chemistry
  • physics
  • geology

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'biome' (a community of plants and animals).
  • Using 'biology' to refer to non-living sciences.
  • Mispronouncing the word with emphasis on the wrong syllable.