Geographical vs. Geographic: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Updated on September 29, 2023
Geographic relates to geography or the arrangement of physical features; geographical is its adjectival form, referring to locations and their characteristics or relationships.
Key Differences
Geographic is a term that is used to describe anything related to geography, which is the study of the physical features of the Earth and its atmosphere. Geographical, being its adjective form, is used to describe the characteristics, placement, or arrangement of a location or features on the Earth.
Geographic can refer to aspects like geographic location, geographic coordinate, or geographic area, emphasizing more on the physical features or the scientific aspect of geography. Conversely, geographical can relate to more varied aspects like geographical distribution, geographical differences, highlighting the relationship, or comparison between different locations or features.
In essence, geographic is more commonly used in a scientific or technical context, describing the properties or attributes related to the Earth’s features. Geographical, while similar in meaning, tends to be more versatile and is often used in a broader sense to describe anything related to the locations and their relationships on the Earth.
While the distinction between geographic and geographical is subtle and these terms are often used interchangeably, paying attention to context can help determine the most appropriate usage. For instance, geographic information system (GIS) is a term used in a specific technical context, while geographical area can be used more broadly to denote a specific region or location.
Comparison Chart
Usage
Adjectival form used in a broad sense.
Used in more scientific or technical context.
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Refers to
Characteristics or relationships of locations.
Physical features or attributes of the Earth.
Context
Broader and more versatile.
More specific and technical.
Examples
Geographical area, geographical distribution.
Geographic location, geographic coordinate.
Associations
Often related to comparisons or relationships between locations.
Frequently associated with the scientific study of the Earth’s features.
Geographical and Geographic Definitions
Geographical
Geographical can describe the distribution or arrangement of features on the Earth’s surface.
The geographical spread of the species is limited to temperate zones.
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Geographic
Geographic involves the examination or analysis of the Earth’s physical features.
Geographic research is fundamental for environmental conservation.
Geographical
Geographical implies the relationships or comparisons between different locations.
The geographical differences between the regions are significant.
Geographic
Geographic pertains to the science of geography, focusing on the Earth and its features.
The geographic study revealed the area's diverse landscapes.
Geographical
Geographical refers to anything related to the Earth's locations and their characteristics.
The geographical features of the region include mountains and lakes.
Geographic
Geographic is used in technical or scientific contexts related to geography.
Geographic information systems are crucial for spatial analysis.
Geographical
Geographical is associated with the study of the Earth and its features.
Geographical knowledge is essential for understanding global diversity.
Geographic
Geographic refers to the physical attributes or locations on the Earth.
The geographic coordinates specify the exact location.
Geographical
Geographical is used in the context of location-specific attributes or qualities.
The geographical conditions of the area affect the local climate.
Geographic
Geographic is associated with the arrangement or categorization of the Earth’s features.
Geographic mapping helps in understanding spatial relationships.
Geographical
Of or relating to geography.
Geographic
Of or relating to geography.
Geographical
Concerning the topography of a specific region.
Geographic
Concerning the topography of a specific region.
Geographical
Of or relating to geography.
Geographic
Pertaining to geography (or to geographics)
Geographical
(informal) A move to another place in the hope of curing an addiction etc.
Geographic
Determined by geography, as opposed to magnetic (i.e. North)
Geographical
Of or relating to the science of geography
Geographic
Of or pertaining to geography.
Geographical
Determined by geography;
The north and south geographic poles
Geographic
Of or relating to the science of geography
Geographic
Determined by geography;
The north and south geographic poles
FAQs
Can geographic refer to the study of physical features of the Earth?
Yes, geographic relates to the study of the Earth's physical features and locations.
Is geographic more technical?
Generally, geographic is used in more scientific or technical contexts related to geography.
Can we say geographical distribution?
Absolutely, geographical distribution is a common term used to describe the spread or arrangement of features or species.
Are geographical and geographic interchangeable?
They are often used interchangeably but have subtle differences in usage and context.
Can geographical imply comparison between locations?
Yes, geographical can imply the relationships or comparisons between different locations or features.
Can geographical refer to characteristics of specific locations?
Absolutely, geographical often refers to characteristics or relationships of specific locations on the Earth.
Can geographic relate to mapping?
Certainly, geographic is often associated with mapping and spatial analysis of the Earth’s features.
Is geographical area a correct usage?
Yes, geographical area is a correct and common usage to denote a specific region or location.
Is geographic used with coordinates?
Yes, terms like geographic coordinates are common as they specify exact locations on the Earth.
Is a geographic information system related to geography study?
Yes, a geographic information system (GIS) is a technical tool used in the study and analysis of geographical data.
Can geographical conditions affect climate?
Definitely, geographical conditions, such as location and topography, significantly impact the local climate.
Can geographical refer to the study of Earth’s surface?
Yes, geographical is associated with the study of the Earth’s surface and its varied features and characteristics.
Do geographic terms relate to the Earth's physical attributes?
Yes, geographic terms often relate to the Earth’s physical attributes or locations.
Is geographic analysis used in environmental studies?
Yes, geographic analysis is fundamental in environmental studies to examine and understand the Earth’s features.
Can geographical knowledge include understanding of locations and their characteristics?
Absolutely, geographical knowledge encompasses understanding of various locations and their characteristics or relationships.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
