Definitions
- Describing something that existed a long time ago, often referring to civilizations or historical periods. - Referring to old or traditional customs, beliefs, or practices. - Talking about something that is very old or has been around for a long time.
- Describing a time period before written history or recorded events. - Referring to the era when humans lived before the development of writing systems. - Talking about ancient times when humans relied on stone tools and had no written records.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe something from a long time ago.
- 2Both words are used to talk about ancient times or civilizations.
- 3Both words can refer to historical periods or events.
- 4Both words are used to describe things that existed before the present time.
What is the difference?
- 1Time Period: Ancient refers to a broad range of historical periods, while prehistoric specifically refers to the time before written records.
- 2Human Development: Ancient can include civilizations that had writing systems and recorded history, while prehistoric refers to a time when humans did not have writing.
- 3Scope: Ancient can be used to describe various aspects of history, including cultures, architecture, and traditions, while prehistoric focuses more on the absence of written records and the use of stone tools.
- 4Knowledge: Ancient implies some knowledge or understanding of the past, while prehistoric suggests a lack of detailed information due to the absence of written records.
- 5Connotation: Ancient can have a positive connotation, highlighting the richness and significance of historical periods, while prehistoric can have a more neutral or scientific connotation, emphasizing the absence of written records.
Remember this!
Ancient and prehistoric are both words used to describe things from a long time ago. However, the difference between them lies in the time period and the presence or absence of written records. Ancient refers to a broad range of historical periods and can include civilizations with written records, while prehistoric specifically refers to the time before written history and the absence of written records.
