Biography vs. Background — What's the Difference?

Biographies and backgrounds serve to inform us about individuals, but they do so in distinctly different ways. On the other hand, a background gives a broader perspective of a person's upbringing, education, and formative experiences.

While biographies often cover a person's entire life, backgrounds can be more selective, focusing on specific aspects relevant to the context in which they are being discussed. Background information might be used in various contexts, such as a professional setting to provide an overview of an individual's qualifications and experiences that make them suitable for a particular role.

Biographies are typically more formal and comprehensive, sometimes requiring extensive research and interviews to accurately portray the subject's life. They can be found in the form of books, documentaries, or lengthy articles. Backgrounds, however, can be presented in a more concise format, such as a resume, a brief introductory section in a professional biography, or the "about" section of a website.

The audience's interest and the purpose behind the writing also differ. Biographies are often read for entertainment, inspiration, or educational purposes, allowing individuals to learn about the life stories of notable figures. Backgrounds, conversely, are usually aimed at providing specific information to a targeted audience, such as potential employers, colleagues, or members of an organization, to give a quick overview of a person's qualifications and experiences.