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Structure

STRUK-cher /ˈstrʌktʃər/

nounverbB2SATGRETOEFLIELTS

formalscientificgeneral

(noun) The arrangement of and relations between the parts or elements of something complex; a building or framework. (verb) To construct or arrange in a definite pattern.

In chemistry, it often refers to molecular geometry or crystal lattice. In general use, it's about organization or a physical construction.

The story behind the word. The word 'structure' comes from the Latin 'structura,' meaning 'a fitting together,' 'a building,' or 'arrangement.' This is derived from the verb 'struere,' meaning 'to build' or 'to arrange.' Its origin clearly points to the idea of how parts are put together to form a whole, whether it's a physical building, a molecular arrangement, or a conceptual framework.

Word relationships

arrangement: The way in which things are placed or organized, often less complex than 'structure'.
framework: A basic structure underlying a system, concept, or text.
composition: The way in which something is made up of constituent parts.

disorder: Lack of arrangement or organization.
chaos: Complete disorder and confusion.

Commonly confused with

Form: 'Form' refers to the external shape or appearance; 'structure' refers to the internal arrangement of parts.

Word family

structural (adjective): Relating to or forming part of a structure.
restructure (verb): To change the structure of something.

Collocations

molecular structure
crystal structure
organizational structure
social structure
bone structure

Idioms & expressions

power structure

Example sentences

"The crystalline structure of salt gives it its characteristic cubic shape." In a chemical context.
"The company's new organizational structure aims to improve efficiency." Referring to organization.
"The architect decided to structure the building around a central courtyard." As a verb, to organize.

Memory hook

Think of 'STRUC-TURE' as how something is 'CON-STRUCT-ed' or 'built'. STRUC-TURE: how it's CON-STRUCT-ed

When not to use

Avoid using 'structure' when a simpler term like 'shape' or 'arrangement' would suffice, unless emphasizing complexity or underlying organization.

Fun facts

The double helix structure of DNA, discovered by Watson and Crick, was a monumental breakthrough in biology.
In computer science, 'data structures' are specific ways of organizing data to efficiently access and modify it.

Related words

Properties, Molecule

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