Reading Theme:
Fieldwork Definition, Examples & Usage (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：on-site research (fieldwork)
fieldwork
/ˈfiːldwɜːrk/
n.
Research done by going out and seeing things for yourself in real places, instead of just reading books.
on-site research
➕
/ɒn saɪt rɪˈsɜːrtʃ/
n.
The process of collecting primary data by going directly to a real-world location, rather than using books or secondhand sources.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
field (open land) + work (labor). Literally 'work in the field'.
💡 Mnemonic
Imagine a grassy field where you actively work to gather real-world data.
📖 Example
The anthropology student spent six months in a remote village doing fieldwork for her thesis on local festivals.
The anthropology student spent six months in a remote village doing fieldwork for her thesis on local festivals.
🔗 Collocations
conduct fieldwork – carry out on-site research
fieldwork project – a research initiative that involves going to a location
fieldwork experience – practical knowledge gained from direct observation
🔄 Synonyms
field study (n.) – a scientific study conducted in a natural setting
on-site investigation (n.) – examination carried out at the actual location
empirical research (n.) – research based on direct observation or experience
🚫 Antonyms
desk research (n.) – research conducted using existing sources, not in the field
lab work (n.) – experiments performed in a controlled laboratory setting
🌱 Derivatives
fieldworker (n.) – a person who does fieldwork
📖 Cultural Story
Originating in the 18th century, fieldwork described scientific observations made outside laboratories, common in geology and anthropology.
Meaning 2：outdoor sampling (fieldwork)
fieldwork
/ˈfiːldwɜːrk/
n.
Practical work done outside, especially to collect information or samples, like by geologists or ecologists.
outdoor sampling
➕
/ˈaʊtˌdɔːr ˈsæmplɪŋ/
n.
Practical work performed outdoors to collect specimens, measurements, or environmental data, typically in geology, ecology, or archaeology.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The geologist's fieldwork involved mapping rock formations in the desert and collecting soil samples.
The geologist's fieldwork involved mapping rock formations in the desert and collecting soil samples.
🔗 Collocations
geological fieldwork – on-site study of rocks and landforms
ecological fieldwork – outdoor research on ecosystems and species
fieldwork equipment – tools used for collecting samples outside
🔄 Synonyms
field collection (n.) – the act of gathering specimens in nature
outdoor survey (n.) – a systematic examination conducted outside
site investigation (n.) – detailed inspection of a specific location
🚫 Antonyms
laboratory work (n.) – activities performed in a controlled indoor lab
theoretical study (n.) – research based on models and ideas, not direct observation
🌱 Derivatives
fieldworker (n.) – a person who conducts fieldwork
Wordbook
Your data is saved in this browser