WordGarden.iosystematic
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /sˌɪstəmˈætɪk/
US
- /ˌsɪstəˈmætɪk/
Meanings
Adjective
done according to a fixed plan or organized method
orderly and methodical in habits or work
Beyond the definition
If a detective carefully gathers clues and follows a clear path to solve a crime, that's systematic. It means doing things with a plan and in an ordered way, instead of acting at random. Think of building a complex LEGO set: following the instructions step by step helps you finish the model without missing a piece.
A systematic approach is thorough and consistent. Scientists use systematic methods when they do experiments so their results are reliable, and librarians arrange books in a clear system so every book is easy to find. You might also describe someone as "systematic" if they follow the same morning routine or always put their tools back in the same place. In the end, the idea is simple: order, planning, and doing things step by step.
The word "systematic" describes something done or acting according to a fixed plan or system; it is methodical, orderly, and consistent. It implies a deliberate approach where each step is carefully considered and follows a logical sequence. For example, if a company conducts a "systematic review of its safety procedures," it means they are examining every detail thoroughly and in an organized manner, rather than just checking things off at a glance.
"Systematic" isn't just about the act of doing things in order; it can also describe something that follows a clear system. A well-organized library using the Dewey Decimal System is systematic because every book has a proper place based on a logical framework. In the same way, a person can be systematic in daily life by sorting files carefully, following a checklist, or solving problems one step at a time.
The term often appears in scientific research ("a systematic study"), technical work ("a systematic approach to troubleshooting"), and organized routines at home, school, or work. It can also appear in phrases like "systematic error," where the idea is not careful planning but an error that happens in a regular, repeated way because of the system being used. More broadly, it can describe a person's habits or way of working. Someone who is careful, organized, and guided by routines could be described as systematic in their work. Whether you are talking about a process, a method, or a person's habits, "systematic" highlights structure, planning, and consistency instead of chaos.
Examples
- 1
Business process
We need a more systematic way to track customer complaints.
- 2
Personal organization
She was very systematic about saving receipts and organizing her files.
- Patternsystematic about + task
careful and organized in doing it
- 3
Police search
The police carried out a systematic search of the building.
- 4
Hiring discrimination
The report found systematic discrimination in the hiring process.
- Phrasesystematic discrimination
unfair treatment that happens regularly or as part of an organized system
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Research method
Before writing the article, he did a systematic review of the available research.
- Domain
in research, a systematic review collects and compares previous studies
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- systematic approach
- systematic review
- systematic analysis
- systematic way
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- systematicadjective