Astrology vs. Astrologist: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on September 18, 2023
Astrology is the study of celestial objects' influence on human life and events. An astrologist is a person who practices or is skilled in astrology.
Key Differences
Astrology is a belief system that suggests there is a relationship between the positions of celestial bodies and events on Earth, including human life. An astrologist is someone who interprets these celestial positions to provide insights into a person's characteristics or future. While astrology is the field of study, an astrologist is the practitioner.
Astrology can be broken down into different types, such as horoscopic astrology, which is based on a person's sun sign. Astrologists usually specialize in one or more types of astrology and may use various methods for making predictions or delineating personality traits. Astrology is the theory, and the astrologist is the one applying this theory.
In terms of grammar, "astrology" is a noun referring to the field of study. "Astrologist" is also a noun, but it specifically refers to a person practicing astrology. While you would say, "I'm interested in astrology," you would say, "She is an astrologist" to specify the individual practicing the craft.
The roots of the words are slightly different but related. Astrology comes from the Greek words "astron," meaning "star," and "logos," meaning "study." Astrologist comes from "astrology" but with the "-ist" suffix, indicating a person involved in the practice. Both terms serve to demarcate the study from the practitioner.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Study of celestial influence
Practitioner of astrology
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Grammatical Category
Noun
Noun
Specialization
Types include horoscopic, electional, etc.
May specialize in certain types
Language Origin
Greek
Derived from "astrology" + "-ist"
Use in a Sentence
"I'm studying astrology."
"She is an astrologist.
Astrology and Astrologist Definitions
Astrology
A belief system positing a relationship between celestial phenomena and earthly events.
Some people consult astrology for guidance in life.
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Astrologist
A practitioner of astrology.
The astrologist read my birth chart.
Astrology
The practice of casting horoscopes.
Astrology involves complex calculations.
Astrologist
An expert in interpreting celestial influence on human affairs.
The astrologist provided advice based on planetary positions.
Astrology
The study of celestial bodies' influence on human affairs.
Astrology has been around for thousands of years.
Astrologist
A person who offers divination based on celestial patterns.
The astrologist had a busy practice.
Astrology
A field of study involving zodiac signs, planets, and houses.
Astrology examines how planetary movements influence human behavior.
Astrologist
Someone skilled in casting horoscopes.
An experienced astrologist can offer insights into your life.
Astrology
A divinatory art based on celestial patterns.
Astrology is often considered a pseudoscience.
Astrologist
An individual specialized in certain types of astrology.
The astrologist focused on electional astrology to choose auspicious times for events.
Astrology
The study of the positions and motions of celestial bodies in the belief that they have an influence on the course of natural earthly occurrences and human affairs.
Astrologist
One who practices astrology; an astrologer.
Astrology
(Obsolete) Astronomy.
Astrologist
Someone who predicts the future by the positions of the planets and sun and moon
Astrology
Divination about human affairs or natural phenomena from the relative positions of celestial bodies.
Astrology
In its etymological signification, the science of the stars; among the ancients, synonymous with astronomy; subsequently, the art of judging of the influences of the stars upon human affairs, and of foretelling events by their position and aspects.
Astrology
A pseudoscience claiming divination by the positions of the planets and sun and moon
FAQs
What is an Astrologist?
An astrologist is a person skilled in or practicing astrology.
What is Astrology?
Astrology is the study of how celestial bodies influence human life and events.
Is Astrology a Science?
Astrology is often considered a pseudoscience, as it lacks empirical evidence.
How is Astrology Different from Astronomy?
Astrology is a belief system, while astronomy is a scientific study of celestial objects.
How Do You Become an Astrologist?
There's no standard path, but many astrologists have extensive study and practice in the field.
What Do Astrologists Do?
Astrologists interpret celestial positions to provide insights into personality, future, etc.
Is Astrology Always About Predicting the Future?
No, astrology can also provide insights into personality, compatibility, and more.
Do All Astrologists Practice the Same Type of Astrology?
No, astrologists may specialize in various types of astrology like horoscopic, electional, etc.
What is a Birth Chart?
A birth chart is an astrological chart representing the celestial positions at the time of one's birth.
What is a Horoscope?
A horoscope is an astrological chart representing the positions of celestial bodies at a specific time.
Can Astrology be Learned?
Yes, there are many courses, books, and resources available to learn astrology.
Do Astrologists Use Tools?
Yes, they may use birth charts, software, and other tools for calculations.
Who Uses Astrology?
People from various backgrounds and beliefs may consult astrology for various reasons.
How Accurate is Astrology?
The accuracy of astrology is a matter of belief and interpretation.
Is Astrologist a Profession?
Yes, many astrologists offer consultations and write horoscopes as a profession.
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
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
