Geographic vs. Geographical — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on October 27, 2023
"Geographic" and "geographical" both relate to Earth's features and locations. They're largely synonymous, but "geographic" is often used in specific contexts, like "geographic coordinates," while "geographical" is more general.
Difference Between Geographic and Geographical
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Both words pertain to the Earth, its features, or its locations. They often can be used interchangeably, but certain contexts may favor one over the other.
This term is frequently paired with specific concepts, such as "geographic coordinates" or "geographic information system (GIS)." It's a more streamlined word, and its usage can often be found in technical or specific domains.
This adjective is broader and can describe anything related to the Earth's physical features or the study of the Earth. Terms like "geographical region" or "geographical studies" make use of this variant.
While in many instances the two can be swapped without changing the meaning, there might be traditional or stylistic reasons to choose one over the other. For example, "geographical" might be preferred in academic or formal writings.
Both "geographic" and "geographical" relate to Earth and its study. However, "geographic" tends to be found in more specialized contexts, while "geographical" has broader applications.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Relates to Earth's features or locations.
Pertains to Earth's physical features.
Usage
More specific contexts.
Broader applications.
Examples
Geographic coordinates, GIS.
Geographical region, geographical studies.
Length
Shorter word.
Longer, more formal sounding.
Common in
Technical terms or domains.
Academic or general writings.
Compare with Definitions
Geographic
Pertaining to the natural features of the Earth.
The map provides a detailed geographic representation of the terrain.
Geographical
Indicative of a region's or place's nature or character.
The country has diverse geographical regions.
Geographic
Concerning a specific region or place.
The geographic challenges of the desert make habitation difficult.
Geographical
Related to the physical features of the Earth.
The geographical barriers of the mountains prevented easy travel.
Geographic
Indicating a specific location on Earth.
The geographic coordinates led them to the hidden treasure.
Geographical
Associated with the spatial aspects or dimensions.
The geographical mapping of the area was completed last month.
Geographic
Relating to geography as a field of study.
His main interest is in geographic research.
Geographical
Concerning the study of Earth and its features.
She's taking a course in geographical sciences.
Geographic
Involving spatial locations or measurements.
The software has a geographic data feature.
Geographical
Referring to location in terms of position on Earth.
The geographical spread of the disease was alarming.
Geographic
Of or relating to geography.
Geographical
Of or relating to geography.
Geographic
Concerning the topography of a specific region.
Geographical
Concerning the topography of a specific region.
Geographic
Pertaining to geography (or to geographics)
Geographical
Of or relating to geography.
Geographic
Determined by geography, as opposed to magnetic (i.e. North)
Geographical
(informal) A move to another place in the hope of curing an addiction etc.
Geographic
Of or pertaining to geography.
Geographical
Of or relating to the science of geography
Geographic
Of or relating to the science of geography
Geographical
Determined by geography;
The north and south geographic poles
Geographic
Determined by geography;
The north and south geographic poles
Common Curiosities
Can both terms be used in academic writing?
Yes, both are acceptable, though "geographical" might be more common.
Which is more formal, "geographic" or "geographical"?
"Geographical" can sound more formal, especially in academic contexts.
Are "geographic" and "geographical" interchangeable?
Largely, yes. But some contexts might favor one over the other.
What's an example of "geographic" in a technical context?
"Geographic Information System (GIS)" is a technical application.
Can "geographical" relate to culture?
Indirectly, as cultures can be influenced by geographical factors.
Are the terms related to "geology"?
While both involve the Earth, geology specifically studies its solid materials.
Can they be used in non-scientific contexts?
Yes, both can describe anything related to Earth's physical features or locations.
Is "geographical" longer than "geographic"?
Yes, "geographical" has an additional "al" at the end.
Is "geographic location" redundant?
It can be, but it's often used for emphasis or clarity.
How are they pronounced?
"Geographic" is [jee-uh-graf-ik], and "geographical" is [jee-uh-graf-i-kuhl].
What's the root of these words?
They both come from the Greek word "geographia," meaning Earth description.
Which term is older?
Both have roots in ancient languages, but it's hard to pinpoint which came first in English.
Is "geographic region" the same as "geographical area"?
They're similar, but "region" might imply a larger area than "area."
Do they only pertain to Earth?
Primarily, but they could be used to describe features of other planets in context.
Can they be nouns?
Generally, they're adjectives. The noun form is "geography."
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
