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Subfield - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A subfield is a specialized area within a broader field of study or discipline. For example, linguistics is a subfield of anthropology, focusing specifically on language and its structure.

subfield

/ˈsʌbˌfild/ /ˈsʌbˌfiːld/

Definition:

A specialized branch or division within a broader field of study or activity.

Synonyms:

subdivision, branch, specialty, discipline

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

main field, whole field

Common Collocations:

academic subfield, research subfield, scientific subfield, mathematical subfield

Derivatives:

subfields, subfielding

Usage Tips:

Use "subfield" to specify a niche area within a larger discipline like mathematics or linguistics.

Common Phrases:

emerging subfield, core subfield, interdisciplinary subfield

Etymology:

Derived from "sub-" (under) + "field," indicating a smaller area within a larger domain.

Examples:

  • 1. Algebra is a key subfield of mathematics.
  • 2. Her research focuses on a niche subfield of neuroscience.
  • 3. The conference covered every major subfield in physics.
  • 4. Linguistics has many subfields, including phonetics and syntax.

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