Agriculture
UK /["/ˈæɡrɪkʌltʃə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈæɡrɪkʌltʃər/"]/
Definition
the science or practice of farming
In simple words: The practice of growing crops and raising animals for food.
Examples
- The number of people employed in agriculture has fallen in the last decade.
- 50% of the country’s population depends on agriculture.
Usage notes
Commonly used in formal contexts related to farming and food production. Less suitable in casual conversations unless specifically discussing farming.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of 'a-great-culture' where farming grows food for society.
Collocations
- modern
- intensive
- organic
- be employed in
- be engaged in
- work in
Synonyms
- farming
- cultivation
- husbandry
- agribusiness
Antonyms
- industry
- manufacturing
- urbanization
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'horticulture', which is specifically about garden crops.
- Mispronounced as 'agri-culture' instead of the correct 'agri-culture'.
- Using it incorrectly as a verb.