Definition

A group of individuals or species that is not part of the main group being studied or considered, often used in scientific contexts to provide a comparison.

Example

In the study of evolutionary relationships, researchers often include an outgroup to help clarify the characteristics of the ingroup.

Conversation

Have you ever studied about the concept of outgroup in biology?

Not really, what is it about?

It's interesting how it refers to all the species that aren't part of the main group you’re looking at.

Oh, that makes sense! I guess it helps to understand relationships better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Outgroup → It is formed from "out-" (meaning outside) and "group" (from Old French *groupe*, meaning a collection of individuals). The word "outgroup" refers to a group of individuals that is considered to be outside of a particular social group or community.

Memory Tip

Think of 'outside' ('out-') and a 'collection of individuals' ('group') to remember that an outgroup is a group that is outside of your own social circle.

Visually Confused Words