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Question

In the following question, out of the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for the given words/sentence.

Study of cultures.

The correct answer is

ethnology

Understanding the Study of Cultures

The question asks for the single word that can be substituted for the phrase "Study of cultures". To answer this, we need to look at the provided options and understand what each term means.

Analyzing the Options for Studying Cultures

Let's examine each of the given terms:

  • Eremology: This term refers to the study of deserts. It is derived from the Greek word 'eremos', meaning 'desert' or 'lonely place'. Clearly, this is not the study of cultures.
  • Etymology: This is the study of the origin and history of words and their meanings. It is concerned with language development, not human cultures in general.
  • Ethology: This is the study of animal behaviour. It focuses on the behavioural patterns of animals in their natural environment. This is distinct from the study of human cultures.
  • Ethnology: This term specifically refers to the study of the characteristics of various peoples and the differences and relationships between them. This includes their cultures, societies, and historical development. This aligns directly with the "Study of cultures".

Identifying the Correct Term for Culture Study

Based on the definitions:

  • Eremology = Study of deserts
  • Etymology = Study of word origins
  • Ethology = Study of animal behaviour
  • Ethnology = Study of cultures and peoples

Therefore, the term that means "Study of cultures" is ethnology.

Revision Table: Study of Different Subjects

Here is a summary of the terms and their meanings:

Term Meaning / Study of
Eremology Deserts
Etymology Word origins and history
Ethology Animal behaviour
Ethnology Cultures, characteristics of peoples, and their relationships

Additional Information on Ethnology and Related Fields

Ethnology is a branch of anthropology. Anthropology is the broader study of humanity, including its origins, societies, and cultures. Ethnology often involves comparing different cultures to understand human societies on a broader scale. Other related fields include:

  • Ethnography: The systematic study of individual cultures. Ethnographers typically spend time living within a community to observe and record its way of life. Ethnology often uses the data collected by ethnographers for comparative analysis.
  • Sociology: The study of the development, structure, and functioning of human society. While related to culture, sociology focuses more on social structures and interactions.
  • Cultural Anthropology: This field is very similar to ethnology and is often used interchangeably. It focuses on the study of human cultures and societies.

Understanding these different fields helps clarify the specific scope of ethnology as the comparative study of cultures.

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Important Questions from One Word Substitution

  1. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute for the given group of words.

    A glass container to keep fish

  2. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute for the given group of words.

    Something that is strong and lasts a long time without breaking or becoming weaker.

  3. Select the word which means the same as the group of words given.

    A place where plants are grown for sale

  4. In the following question, out of the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for the given words/sentence.

    Open refusal to obey orders

  5. Select the word which means the same as the group of words given.

    A doctor who specializes in heart diseases

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