What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sociology
Example
Sociology is the scientific study of society and human behavior. [sociology: noun]
Example
She is majoring in sociology and hopes to become a social worker. [sociology: noun]
anthropology
Example
Anthropology is the study of human societies and cultures. [anthropology: noun]
Example
He is an anthropologist who specializes in the study of indigenous cultures. [anthropologist: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sociology is more commonly used than anthropology in everyday language. Sociology is a well-established discipline with a wide range of applications, while anthropology is a more specialized field.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sociology and anthropology?
Both sociology and anthropology can be used in formal and academic contexts. However, anthropology may be considered more specialized and therefore more formal in certain contexts.
