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noun B1 Intermediate Uncommon

civilisation

sihv-ih-leye-ZAY-shuhn

Civilisation (noun) means British spelling of civilization — an organised, developed society or culture. Example: “Ancient Egyptian civilisation lasted for thousands of years.”

noun
1
British spelling of civilization — an organised, developed society or culture.
"Ancient Egyptian civilisation lasted for thousands of years."

How to use civilisation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSame word as civilization, just spelled the British way.

UK vs US

UK/Commonwealth English uses "civilisation"; American English uses "civilization."

Easily confused with

Word forms

civilisations plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Ancient Egyptian _____ lasted for thousands of years.

Etymology

From French civilisation, from civil plus -isation.

Origin: French

Related words

Rhymes for civilisation

See all rhymes for civilisation →

Frequently asked questions

What does “civilisation” mean?

The word “civilisation” means british spelling of civilization — an organised, developed society or culture. In plain terms, same word as civilization, just spelled the British way.

How do you pronounce “civilisation”?

“Civilisation” is pronounced sihv-ih-leye-ZAY-shuhn (/ˌsɪv.ɪ.lɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “civilisation” in a sentence?

Here is “civilisation” used in a sentence: “Ancient Egyptian civilisation lasted for thousands of years.”

What part of speech is “civilisation”?

“Civilisation” is a noun.

Where does the word “civilisation” come from?

The word “civilisation” comes from French. From French civilisation, from civil plus -isation.

Is “civilisation” a common word?

“Civilisation” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

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