Academic / C1

THEES-is/ˈθiːsɪs/

In British universities a thesis is a long, original research paper for a degree, especially a doctorate; a master’s dissertation is the usual UK name at that level, though thesis is also heard. An essay is a short course assignment. Native writers also use thesis for the central claim of an argument: her thesis is that…. Do not call a 2,000-word essay a thesis.

Meaning

A long piece of writing on a subject, done for a university degree.

Examples

• “She is writing her thesis this year.”
• “He defended his doctoral thesis in June.”
• “The thesis of the article is that timing matters more than talent.”

Good to know

UK: PhD thesis; master’s often dissertation. essay = short assignment. also: central claim.

Near in meaning

dissertation

Topics

New