ev ‧ o ‧ lu ‧ tion AC /ˌiːvəˈluːʃ ə n, ˌevə- $ ˌevə-/ BrE AmE noun [uncountable]
[ Word Family: verb : ↑ evolve ; noun : ↑ evolution ; adjective : ↑ evolutionary ]
1 . the scientific idea that plants and animals develop and change gradually over a long period of time
evolution of
the evolution of mammals
the theory of evolution
2 . the gradual change and development of an idea, situation, or object
evolution of
the evolution of the computer
• • •
COLLOCATIONS (for Meaning 1)
■ verbs
▪ evolution happens/takes place ( also evolution occurs formal )
We can see signs of evolution taking place in the world around us.
▪ trace something's evolution (=find the origins of when an animal, plant etc began or where it came from)
Anthropologists can trace the evolution of plants and animals by examining fossils.
■ adjectives
▪ human evolution
Our ancestors reached a key stage in human evolution when they began to stand up straight.
▪ biological evolution
Every living creature has been formed by the slow process of biological evolution.
▪ physical evolution
The environment plays a large part in the physical evolution of the species.
▪ Darwinian evolution (=based on the ideas of Charles Darwin)
He expounded the theory that language is the product of Darwinian evolution.
■ phrases
▪ the theory of evolution
Many Christians find it impossible to accept Darwin's theory of evolution.
• • •
COLLOCATIONS (for Meaning 2)
■ adjectives
▪ gradual/continuous evolution
The social system is undergoing continuous evolution to adapt to these rapid changes.
▪ cultural/social evolution
Neither cultural or social evolution is any guarantee that we are moving towards a better world.
▪ political evolution
Prime Minister Nehru played a significant role in the political evolution of India.
▪ technological evolution
The pace of technological evolution is getting faster all the time.
■ verbs
▪ evolution takes place ( also evolution occurs formal ) (=happens)
A similar evolution was taking place in other great American cities.
▪ trace something's evolution (=find the origins of when something began or where it came from)
The show traced the evolution of black American music from gospel through soul to hip-hop