BBC Learning English - Nature vs. Nurture Vocabulary

Vocabulary terms, definitions, and context examples extracted from the BBC Learning English text on Nature vs. Nurture.

versus

Against or in contrast with (e.g., "Nature versus nurture.").

rural

Relating to the countryside rather than the city or town (e.g., "People in rural areas.").

age-old

Having existed for a very long time; ancient or long-standing (e.g., "The age-old question of nature vs. nurture.").

nature-nurture debate

The ongoing discussion regarding whether heredity or environment plays a greater role in human development (e.g., "The nature-nurture debate has lasted for decades.").

pondering

Thinking carefully and deeply about something (e.g., "Scientists are pondering this question.").

put to the test

Subjected to a trial or examination to prove value, truth, or effectiveness (e.g., "The theory was put to the test.").

twin pairs

Sets of two twins studied together in research (e.g., "Researchers studied twin pairs.").

identical

Monozygotic twins who develop from a single fertilized egg and share 100% of their genes (e.g., "Identical twins share 100% of genes.").

heritability

The extent to which genetic individual differences contribute to individual differences in observed behavior or traits (e.g., "The heritability of intelligence is high.").

traits

Distinguishing qualities, features, or characteristics belonging to a person (e.g., "Personality traits vary from person to person.").

prevalent

Widespread or common in a particular area or time (e.g., "This idea is prevalent in society.").

geographical

Relating to the physical features or location of the earth and its regions (e.g., "Geographical differences matter.").

regions

Specific areas or divisions of a country or the world (e.g., "Different regions of the world.").

extraversion

A personality trait characterized by being outgoing, social, and energetic (e.g., "Extraversion makes people outgoing.").

openness

A personality trait characterized by receptivity to new ideas, experiences, and creativity (e.g., "Openness to new experiences.").

agreeableness

A personality trait characterized by being kind, cooperative, and empathetic (e.g., "Agreeableness makes people kind.").

densities

The frequency or concentration of things (such as population) within a measured unit of area (e.g., "Population densities affect research.").

associated

Connected or linked in memory, thought, or cause (e.g., "Genes are associated with traits.").

curiosity

A strong desire to learn, know, or understand something (e.g., "Curiosity drives learning.").

intellect

The capacity for rational thought, reasoning, and understanding (e.g., "He has great intellect.").

densely

In a closely packed or crowded manner (e.g., "Densely populated areas.").

foster

To encourage, promote, or nurture the development or growth of something (e.g., "Good schools foster creativity.").

various

Of many different kinds or types; several (e.g., "There are various factors.").

jigsaw puzzle

A puzzle consisting of many small interlocking pieces that form a picture when fitted together (e.g., "Research is like a jigsaw puzzle.").

encounter

To unexpectedly experience, meet, or face something (e.g., "We encounter obstacles every day.").

obstacles

Things that block one's path, hinder progress, or prevent action (e.g., "Overcoming obstacles is important.").