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ethnography

IPA:

Dictionary definition of ethnography

The systematic study and documentation of human cultures, societies, and communities.
"The ethnography provided a detailed account of the indigenous tribe's cultural practices and beliefs."

Detailed meaning of ethnography

It involves the detailed examination and analysis of a specific group of people, their behaviors, beliefs, customs, and social structures. Ethnography seeks to understand the unique practices, values, and norms that shape a particular cultural group through immersive fieldwork, observation, interviews, and participation in their daily lives. Ethnographers aim to provide an in-depth understanding of the social dynamics, rituals, traditions, and interactions within a specific community. The findings of ethnographic research are typically presented in written form as ethnographic studies or reports. Ethnography serves as a valuable tool in anthropology, sociology, and other social sciences, allowing researchers to gain insights into the rich diversity of human experiences, perspectives, and cultural expressions across different societies and regions of the world.

Example sentences containing ethnography

1. The professor assigned us an ethnography to read for next week.
2. Sarah's ethnography of the small fishing village won her a literary award.
3. Ethnography helps in understanding the intricate cultures of different societies.
4. A well-conducted ethnography can bridge gaps between various communities.
5. The museum had an exhibition that displayed the ethnography of indigenous tribes.
6. Reading an ethnography is like taking a journey into someone else's world.

History and etymology of ethnography

The noun 'ethnography' has its roots in two Greek words: 'ethnos,' meaning 'nation' or 'people,' and 'grapho,' meaning 'to write' or 'to record.' When combined, 'ethnography' essentially means 'writing about or recording the characteristics of a particular group or people.' This term has been used to describe the systematic study and documentation of human cultures, societies, and communities. Ethnographers employ various research methods to immerse themselves in the cultures they study, often through participant observation and interviews, in order to produce detailed and comprehensive accounts of the customs, practices, and beliefs of the people they are researching. The etymology of 'ethnography' underscores its fundamental purpose as a written or recorded exploration of diverse human societies, highlighting the importance of accurate and respectful representation of cultures through scholarly inquiry.

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Further usage examples of ethnography

1. He used various forms of media to make his ethnography more engaging.
2. Her study was based on an ethnography that covered ancient trade routes.
3. Ethnography often involves the researcher immersing themselves in the community they are studying.
4. Modern ethnography incorporates digital tools for recording and analyzing data.
5. The library has a wide selection of books on ethnography, perfect for my research.
6. With globalization, ethnography has become an essential tool for understanding cultural diversity.
7. The professor shared anecdotes from her own experiences while conducting ethnography in rural China.
8. Ethnography as a method is not only restricted to anthropology but is widely used in market research.
9. To compose a comprehensive ethnography, the author interviewed hundreds of residents over several years.
10. Ethnography is a valuable research method for understanding cultural nuances.
11. The ethnography of the indigenous tribe revealed unique customs.
12. Ethnography involves immersing oneself in the culture being studied.
13. The ethnography of urban neighborhoods sheds light on social dynamics.
14. Ethnography requires careful observation and in-depth interviews.
15. Anthropologists often conduct ethnography to explore cultural practices.
16. Ethnography provides insights into the daily lives of diverse communities.
17. The ethnography of a remote village uncovered ancient traditions.
18. Ethnography is a powerful tool for preserving cultural heritage.
19. Ethnography helps researchers uncover hidden cultural meanings.
20. The ethnography of a religious community revealed deep spiritual beliefs.
21. Ethnography involves recording oral histories and traditions.
22. Ethnography allows for the exploration of social structures.
23. The ethnography of a nomadic tribe highlighted their adaptive skills.
24. Ethnography is a cornerstone of cultural anthropology.
25. Ethnography plays a pivotal role in cross-cultural understanding.
26. Researchers use ethnography to analyze cultural change over time.
27. Ethnography helps bridge gaps between different cultural groups.
28. Ethnography provides a holistic view of societies and their practices.
29. The ethnography of a multicultural city explores cultural interactions.