Definition

Noun: - The scholarly knowledge of Asian cultures and languages and people: "Oriental studies" refers to the academic field dedicated to the study of the languages, histories, cultures, and societies of Asia, traditionally focusing on East Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East.

Usage

• The term is used to describe an academic discipline or department at a university.
• It is often used in formal, scholarly contexts to refer to research and education about Asia.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• The term "Oriental studies" is sometimes considered outdated or Eurocentric in modern academia, with many institutions now using terms like "Asian studies," "East Asian studies," or more specific regional names (e.g., "Middle Eastern studies") to reflect a more contemporary and precise focus.

Variants and Related Words

• Asian studies (n): A modern, more commonly used term for the academic study of Asia.
• Sinology (n): The study of Chinese language, history, and culture.
• Japanology (n): The study of Japanese language, history, and culture.
• Indology (n): The study of Indian languages, history, and culture.

Synonyms

• Asian studies
• Eastern studies (less common)

Notes

• While "Oriental studies" remains in use, particularly in historical contexts or certain institutional names, the field is dynamic. The shift in terminology reflects an ongoing effort to move away from colonial-era perspectives and to define the field by the regions and peoples it studies, rather than from a Western viewpoint.

Noun

1. the scholarly knowledge of Asian cultures and languages and people