B1noun2K

Literature

UK /["/ˈlɪtrətʃə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈlɪtrətʃər//ˈlɪtrətʃʊr/"]/

Definition

pieces of writing that are valued as works of art, especially novels, plays and poems (in contrast to technical books and newspapers, magazines, etc.)

In simple words: Written works, like books and poetry.

Examples

  • English/American/French literature
  • children's literature
  • great **works of literature**
  • For most people, the desire to study literature begins with a love of reading.
  • sales literature
  • a review of the **scientific literature** on the topic
  • I've read all the available literature on keeping rabbits.
  • I picked up some literature about pensions.
  • Chapter 1 **reviews the literature** and discusses the main types of sources available.

Usage notes

Use 'literature' to refer to any written artistic works, often in academic or formal settings. It may not be suitable in casual conversations where specific genres are discussed.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'lit' for literature — imagine a light shining on the words of great stories.

Collocations

  • classical
  • contemporary
  • modern
  • piece
  • work
  • read
  • study
  • teach
  • extensive
  • vast
  • voluminous
  • body
  • literature about
  • literature concerning
  • literature on

Synonyms

  • writing
  • books
  • texts
  • fiction
  • poetry

Antonyms

  • ignorance
  • illiteracy

Common mistakes

  • Mixed up with 'literally' and used incorrectly in context.
  • Confused with 'literature' as a term only for classics.
  • Incorrectly assumed to refer only to fiction.