Definition of Civilization
Quick Meaning of Civilization
A society with developed government, culture, and ways of living together organized in a complex way.
Detailed Definition of Civilization
An advanced stage of human social and cultural development, or a society with its own culture, institutions, and way of life.
How to Pronounce Civilization
Stress pattern: oooOo (5-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the fourth syllable with primary stress: siv-ul-i-ZAY-shun. The vowels in unstressed syllables become schwa sounds.
Watch out: Often mispronounced with incorrect stress placement; primary stress belongs on the fourth syllable, not the first.
Origin and Etymology of Civilization
From French civilisation, derived from civil (relating to citizens); ultimately from Latin civilis.
How to Use Civilization in a Sentence
Each example shows “civilization” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Ancient Egyptian civilization lasted for thousands of years.”
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“The development of agriculture was crucial to the rise of civilization.”
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“Modern civilization depends on advanced technology and cooperation.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Civilization
Common Synonyms for Civilization
Smart Synonyms for Civilization — When to Use Each
- culture
- for customs, beliefs, and artistic achievements
- society
- for organized structure of people together
Common Collocations with Civilization
These phrases pair with “civilization” in everyday English:
- ancient civilization
- rise of civilization
- human civilization
- Western civilization
- modern civilization
Common Mistakes When Using Civilization
Even fluent speakers slip up with “civilization”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: Civilization are when people make a society together.
- ✓ Correct: Civilization is an advanced stage of human social and cultural development.
- Why: 'Civilization' is singular and requires 'is'; definition should capture organized complexity.
- ✗ Wrong: That civilization was developed agriculture.
- ✓ Correct: That civilization developed agriculture.
- Why: Do not use 'was developed' with 'civilization'; use simple past 'developed' instead.
Words Confused With Civilization
- Civilization vs Culture: Culture emphasizes beliefs and artistic expression; civilization emphasizes organized society and development.
Other Forms of Civilization
- Noun: civilization
- Verb: civilize
- Adjective: civilized
Frequently Asked Questions About Civilization
What is the meaning of "Civilization"?
A society with developed government, culture, and ways of living together organized in a complex way.
How do you pronounce "Civilization"?
The IPA is /ˌsɪvəlɪˈzeɪʃən/. Stress the fourth syllable with primary stress: siv-ul-i-ZAY-shun. The vowels in unstressed syllables become schwa sounds.
What part of speech is "Civilization"?
"Civilization" is a noun at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Civilization"?
Common synonyms include society, culture, nation.
How do you use "Civilization" in a sentence?
For example: "Ancient Egyptian civilization lasted for thousands of years."