WordGarden.iosociologically
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈəʊsɪəlˈɒdʒɪkli/
US
Meanings
Adverb
from the perspective of sociology or social structure
Beyond the definition
When we talk about something "sociologically," we're looking at it through the lens of society: how people interact with each other, the systems that shape our lives, and the patterns within groups. It's not just about individual feelings; it's about how those feelings are shaped by the world around us. For example, you might analyze a trend like online dating sociologically, asking not just who is using it, but why, what social needs it meets, and how it is changing modern relationships. While a historian might describe events in time order, a sociologist looks at them in terms of the social forces at work.
"Sociologically" describes an approach or analysis related to sociology—the study of human societies and their interactions. It involves understanding how our behaviors, beliefs, and experiences are shaped by the groups we belong to, the institutions around us (like family, education, or government), and the broader social context in which we live.
Using "sociologically" means approaching a topic not from an individual perspective, but from a social one. For example, instead of asking, "Why did this specific person get divorced?" one might look at the situation sociologically by asking, "What social factors contribute to rising divorce rates?" or "How do changing gender roles affect marital stability in recent generations?"
You'll often see "sociologically" used in the context of research or news analysis. A study might examine poverty sociologically, looking at systemic inequalities and economic shifts rather than individual failings. Similarly, news reports use the term to explain current events through the lens of social trends: "Experts are analyzing the protests sociologically, seeking to understand the underlying causes of public unrest."
It's important to note that a sociological perspective isn't reserved for "big" problems like poverty or crime; it applies to the mundane aspects of life too. You could analyze fashion choices sociologically, exploring how clothing reflects social status, subcultural identity, and shifting cultural values.
Ultimately, when you hear something described as "sociologically," it is an invitation to look beyond the individual and consider the powerful influence of the collective on our lives—a way of understanding the world through the intricate web of human connection.
Examples
- 1
Social problems
The problem needs to be understood sociologically, not just as a series of individual choices.
- 2
Town changes
Sociologically, the town changed after the factory closed.
- 3
Social research
The researchers looked at friendship sociologically, asking how class and culture shape it.
- 4
Literary interpretation
The novel can be read sociologically, as a story about power within a family.
- Phrasecan be read sociologically
can be interpreted in terms of society and social relationships
See also
Similar
- from a sociological perspective
- socially
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- think sociologically
- analyze sociologically
- sociologically informed
- sociologically significant
Word family
Explore
- social structure
- social theory
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- sociologicallyadverb