structure
The complex arrangement of parts or elements that form a whole, providing stability and organization. In an academic or professional context, it refers to the logical sequence of an argument, the hierarchy of an organization, or the physical framework of a system.
Examples
3 of 5The structure of the old neighborhood has remained largely unchanged despite urban development.
The structure of the old neighborhood has remained largely unchanged despite urban development.
The proposed organizational structure aims to increase efficiency by reducing bureaucratic layers.
The proposed organizational structure aims to increase efficiency by reducing bureaucratic layers.
I really like the structure of your new workout routine; it seems very balanced.
I really like the structure of your new workout routine; it seems very balanced.
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the 'st' in 'STructure' as standing for 'STable' and 'STanding'—it is what helps a building or an idea stand up.
Quick Quiz
The professor critiqued my essay, stating that while my ideas were good, the _____ of the argument was confusing.
Correct!
The correct answer is: structure
Examples
The structure of the old neighborhood has remained largely unchanged despite urban development.
everydayThe structure of the old neighborhood has remained largely unchanged despite urban development.
The proposed organizational structure aims to increase efficiency by reducing bureaucratic layers.
formalThe proposed organizational structure aims to increase efficiency by reducing bureaucratic layers.
I really like the structure of your new workout routine; it seems very balanced.
informalI really like the structure of your new workout routine; it seems very balanced.
A clear argumentative structure is essential for a high-scoring research paper in the humanities.
academicA clear argumentative structure is essential for a high-scoring research paper in the humanities.
We need to analyze the cost structure of the project before committing more capital.
businessWe need to analyze the cost structure of the project before committing more capital.
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
sentence structure
sentence structure
power structure
power structure
infrastructure project
infrastructure project
Often Confused With
Construction refers to the process of building or the physical building itself, while structure emphasizes the arrangement of parts.
A framework is often a supporting shell or a set of rules used as a guide, whereas structure is the actual internal organization.
Usage Notes
Use 'structure' when you want to emphasize how things are put together or organized. In academic writing, it is frequently used to describe the flow and logic of an essay or experiment.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'structure' as a verb meaning 'to build physically'; as a verb, it more commonly means to organize information or a plan.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'st' in 'STructure' as standing for 'STable' and 'STanding'—it is what helps a building or an idea stand up.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin word 'structura', from 'struere', which means 'to build' or 'to pile up'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Western academic and business environments, having a 'clear structure' is often equated with professionalism and clarity of thought.
Quick Quiz
The professor critiqued my essay, stating that while my ideas were good, the _____ of the argument was confusing.
Correct!
The correct answer is: structure
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
circumgrator
C1Describing a movement or path that wanders in a circular or roundabout fashion rather than following a direct line. It often characterizes physical motion that encompasses a central area or an indirect approach to a task or problem.
micromerctude
C1The state or quality of being excessively focused on minute, often trivial details within a mercantile or commercial context. It describes a meticulous precision that borderlines on pedantry, usually regarding small-scale financial transactions or specific trade conditions.
comvertant
C1A comvertant refers to an entity, proposition, or individual currently undergoing a process of transformation or conversion. It is often used in specialized academic or technical contexts to denote the specific subject being changed from one state or category to another.
subgravate
C1To aggravate or worsen a situation, condition, or feeling in a subtle or minor degree. It often implies exerting a gradual downward pressure or adding a slight burden to an already difficult circumstance.
dispetize
C1A dispetize is a formal process or systematic act of resolving minor grievances and petty disputes within a professional or social organization. It serves as a clearinghouse for small-scale conflicts to ensure they do not escalate into significant structural issues.
ultrademation
C1Ultrademation refers to the state or process of extreme, total automation where human intervention is entirely replaced by autonomous systems and decision-making algorithms. It represents the highest possible tier of technological autonomy within an industrial or digital framework.
semipulsate
C1A state or instance of partial or intermittent rhythmic throbbing or beating, often occurring at irregular intervals or with reduced intensity. In technical contexts, it refers to a cycle that does not reach the full amplitude of a standard pulse.
adsontion
C1To undergo or facilitate the process of molecular adhesion where molecules of a gas, liquid, or dissolved solid accumulate on the surface of a solid or liquid. Unlike absorption, this process is strictly a surface phenomenon and does not involve the substance being taken into the body of the material.
intrarogship
C1Relating to the internal state or quality of inquiry and mutual accountability within a specific group or institution. It describes the dynamics of procedural questioning that remain within a single organizational hierarchy rather than involving external parties.
underpacant
C1To perform a task or meet a requirement at a rate or quality lower than what was previously established or expected. It is often used in technical or administrative contexts to describe a failure to keep pace with a specific standard or quota.
Comments (0)
Login to CommentStart learning languages for free
Start Learning Free