biography
noun (countable)
UK/baɪˈɒɡ.rə.fi/US/baɪˈɑː.ɡrə.fi/
An account of a person’s life, describing the series of events that shaped them, typically written by someone else.
Example Sentences
He is reading a biography of Martin Luther King Jr. to learn about the civil rights leader’s life and impact.
The biography details her childhood hardships that shaped her dedication to social causes.
Publishers are always looking for well-written biographies that reveal lesser-known facets of important historical figures.
The library’s history section includes numerous biographies on famous world leaders and influential philosophers.
Unlike an autobiography, a biography is usually written by someone who carefully researches the subject's life and contributions.
She was assigned to write a concise biography of a local artist, focusing on key events and the inspirations behind his artwork.
A well-researched biography often includes interviews, diaries, letters, and personal artifacts, weaving them into a compelling narrative that captures the subject’s growth, hardships, and triumphs.
By delving deep into personal anecdotes and previously unpublished documents, the newly released biography on a revered novelist offers unprecedented insight into her creative process and the cultural influences that shaped her iconic literary works.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
A detailed account of an individual’s life, typically composed by someone else.The term is best applied when describing written or recorded accounts of someone’s life events and accomplishments. You might use it in academic, literary, or casual contexts to refer to extended examinations of a person’s experiences, influences, and impact. For instance, a formal setting might include, “I’m studying a thorough biography of Abraham Lincoln,” while a casual context could be, “I read an amazing biography of my favorite actor.” In essence, a biography goes beyond surface details to explore personal growth, challenges, achievements, and historical significance. Whether it is compiled by an official author or a close acquaintance, the word underscores a narrative focusing on the subject’s life path and contributions. By employing this word correctly, you enhance the clarity of your writing or conversation, especially when distinguishing a documented life story from simpler forms of information such as a profile or summary. In academic or creative writing, “biography” can function as a focal point to guide research, establish credibility, and engage an audience keen on understanding the personal side of historical or contemporary figures.
Alternatives
While 'biography' is a clear and widely recognized term, several alternatives can add variety and nuance. 'Life story' offers a simpler, more informal way to highlight personal details and anecdotes. 'Profile' captures a briefer snapshot of someone’s background and accomplishments, often seen in magazines or short features. For a deeper dive into the subject’s inner thoughts and personal reflections, 'memoir' shifts the perspective to a person’s own viewpoint, whereas 'autobiography' stands as a self-written account, offering rich, firsthand details. Each alternative can be chosen according to the level of formality, depth, or personal perspective you intend to convey. For instance, if you wish to adopt a personal voice brimming with intimate memories, 'memoir' might be ideal, while a concise overview of professional life suits 'profile.' Ultimately, employing these variations thoughtfully allows you to tailor your communication more precisely to your subject and audience, facilitating a more vibrant understanding of an individual’s life and legacy.
Writing
When integrating 'biography' into your writing, ensure you highlight the subject’s most influential periods, accomplishments, and personal growth. Clarity is key: provide coherent structure by organizing a person’s life chronologically or thematically, enabling readers to follow the narrative effortlessly. Always verify your sources for accuracy and context, especially when discussing historical or cultural references. Reflect on the subject’s personal motivations, significant relationships, and turning points to enrich your account with depth and insight. Finally, balance factual information with a narrative flair, keeping your reader engaged. By weaving well-researched details with an engaging storyline, you create a piece that feels both informative and captivating.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, 'biography' can be used to share insights about a famous person’s life or even someone you know personally. For instance, if you say, “I just finished this fascinating biography of Queen Elizabeth II,” you inform others that you read a detailed life story instead of a quick article or brief profile. Avoid getting lost in excessive details; instead, focus on what personally resonates with you—like amusing anecdotes or pivotal events in their life. This word is perfect when you want to convey a well-rounded sense of who someone was and what shaped them, offering more than a mere highlight reel of facts.
Etymology
The English word 'biography' stems from Medieval Latin 'biographia,' which traces its roots to the Greek words 'bios' (meaning 'life') and 'graphein' (meaning 'to write'). During the eighteenth century, biographies flourished as a recognized literary genre, fueled by an emerging interest in personal narratives and historical context. Early compilations included saints’ lives and rulers’ chronicles, gradually evolving into more nuanced works exploring individual motivations, personal growth, and human complexity. The growth of mass literacy and publishing in subsequent centuries broadened the genre’s popularity, enabling more voices and broader topics to be explored. Biographies now serve as pathways to understanding historical figures, contemporary celebrities, or ordinary individuals with extraordinary tales, bridging gaps between history, sociology, psychology, and literature.
