Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˌænəˈlɪtɪk/ (UK & US)

Definitions

Adjective: Relating to or using analysis or logical reasoning.

Extended Meaning: Pertaining to a systematic and methodical examination or evaluation of something, often breaking it down into its component parts to understand its structure, function, or meaning.

Usage Examples

• The scientist took an analytic approach to studying the data, breaking it down into smaller, manageable sets.
• Her analytic skills made her an excellent problem solver in complex business situations.
• He offered an analytic explanation of the novel’s themes, focusing on character development and symbolism.

Etymology

The word 'analytic' comes from the Greek word 'analytikos,' meaning 'able to analyze,' which is derived from 'analyein,' meaning 'to break up, loosen.' The term has been in use in the English language since the early 17th century, and initially referred to methods or processes involving analysis, particularly in logic and philosophy.

Synonyms

• Logical
• Systematic
• Reasoned
• Methodical
• Rational
• Critical

Antonyms

• Intuitive
• Unsystematic
• Emotional
• Imprecise
• Irrational

Translations in Major Global Languages

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, the pronunciation tends to emphasize the first syllable: /ˈænəlɪtɪk/.
• In American English, the pronunciation may be slightly less stressed on the second syllable but still maintains the same overall pattern: /ˈænəlɪtɪk/.

Historical Usage

The term 'analytic' has been used in English since the 16th century, primarily in philosophical and logical contexts. In the 17th and 18th centuries, it became more commonly used in relation to mathematics and the sciences, as scholars began emphasizing the breakdown of complex systems into simpler components for understanding and solving problems. Over time, it expanded to various disciplines, including literature, business, and technology, where analytic methods are now seen as crucial for problem-solving and decision-making.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of 'analytic' thinking is highly valued in many cultures, particularly those that emphasize logic, order, and structure. In academic and scientific communities, analytic methods are considered essential for discovering truths and advancing knowledge. In contrast, some cultures or disciplines may place more value on holistic or intuitive approaches, which can be seen as complementary to, or in contrast with, analytic reasoning. For example, in Eastern philosophical traditions, intuition and indirect methods of understanding are sometimes seen as more valid than purely analytic approaches.

More Information

Analytic thinking is central to problem-solving, scientific inquiry, and academic disciplines such as logic, philosophy, and mathematics. It involves breaking down complex ideas, problems, or systems into simpler components to understand their underlying structure and relationships. While analytic methods are particularly valuable in fields such as science and engineering, they are also applied in everyday decision-making and strategic planning in business and economics. The rise of data analytics in the 21st century has further emphasized the importance of analytic thinking in understanding large, complex data sets and making informed decisions.