C1adjectiveformalsciencenature
US/ˌev.əˈluː.ʃən.er.i/
UK/ˌiː.vəˈluː.ʃən.ər.i/
relating to the slow process by which living things change and develop over many generations
In context
Scientists study the evolutionary history of birds by examining ancient fossils.
Language learning may have an evolutionary advantage because it helps people cooperate.
The company's growth was gradual and evolutionary rather than sudden and dramatic.
Words that go with evolutionary
adjective + noun
- evolutionary biologyShe studies evolutionary biology at university.
- evolutionary theoryDarwin founded modern evolutionary theory.
- evolutionary historyThe evolutionary history of whales is surprising.
- evolutionary advantageSpeed gave the animal an evolutionary advantage.
- evolutionary processLanguage change is an evolutionary process.
- evolutionary pressureEvolutionary pressure shaped the animal's long neck.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
evolutional theoryCorrect: evolutionary theory