literature
Meaning: Written works, especially those with artistic merit; written material on a subject
Literature refers to written works, especially those considered to have artistic merit, such as novels, poetry, and plays. It can also mean all the written material on a particular subject (medical literature, sales literature). 'Literary' is the adjective form, describing things related to literature or writing.
Examples
- She studied English literature at university. 她在大学学习英国文学。Ella estudió literatura inglesa en la universidad.彼女は大学で英文学を学びました。그녀는 대학에서 영문학을 공부했습니다.
- The doctor recommended reading the latest literature on the treatment. 医生建议阅读关于这种治疗方法的最新文献。El médico recomendó leer la literatura más reciente sobre el tratamiento.医師はその治療法に関する最新の文献を読むことを勧めました。의사는 그 치료법에 관한 최신 문헌을 읽어볼 것을 권했습니다.
- Shakespeare is one of the greatest figures in English literature. 莎士比亚是英国文学中最伟大的人物之一。Shakespeare es una de las figuras más importantes de la literatura inglesa.シェイクスピアは英文学で最も偉大な人物の一人です。셰익스피어는 영문학에서 가장 위대한 인물 중 한 명입니다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: general
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Latin 'literatura' meaning 'learning' or 'writing', from 'litera' (letter of the alphabet). Originally meant knowledge of letters or book learning; the creative writing sense narrowed in the 18th century.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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