Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Accumulation: meaning, definitions and examples

💰
Add to dictionary

accumulation

 

[əˌkjuːmjəˈleɪʃn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

finance

The process of gradually collecting or increasing a quantity of something, especially money or resources.

Synonyms

amassing, collection, gathering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
accumulation

Use this word when referring to the process of things gradually collecting or increasing over time. Often used in formal or technical contexts.

  • The accumulation of dust on the shelves was noticeable after a few months.
  • Investors are concerned about the accumulation of debt in the company.
collection

Use this word when referring to a group of items gathered together, often with care and intention. Suitable for describing art, stamps, books, etc.

  • Her collection of vintage clothing is truly impressive.
  • The museum's collection includes works by many famous artists.
amassing

This word is suitable for describing the act of gathering or collecting large quantities, often implying effort and intention. Frequently used in the context of wealth, power, or resources.

  • He dedicated his life to amassing a vast collection of art.
  • The dictator was criticized for amassing immense personal wealth.
gathering

This word is best used when talking about bringing things or people together in one place. Suitable for both informal contexts (social gatherings) and more formal occasions.

  • We're having a family gathering this weekend.
  • The scientist is gathering data for her research.

Examples of usage

  • The accumulation of wealth takes time and effort.
  • The accumulation of debt can lead to financial problems.
Context #2 | Noun

science

The gradual collection of a substance in a specific part of the body or object.

Synonyms

accretion, buildup, deposit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
accumulation

Used for a general increase or gathering of things over time, often in a broader or more abstract sense.

  • The accumulation of knowledge is essential for personal growth.
  • She was concerned about the accumulation of dust in the attic.
buildup

Used for a gradual increase or accumulation of something, often leading to a particular effect or outcome. It can have a negative connotation, especially when referring to something unwanted.

  • The buildup of tension before the game was palpable.
  • Excess cholesterol can cause a buildup in your arteries.
deposit

Refers to a natural accumulation of resources or materials, or to place something down in a specific spot, often used in geological or banking contexts.

  • The river left a deposit of silt along its banks.
  • You should deposit the money into your savings account.
accretion

Refers to the gradual growth or increase of something, often used in scientific, geological, or financial contexts.

  • The accretion of sediment in the river delta took thousands of years.
  • Interest is an example of an accretion that can significantly boost your savings over time.

Examples of usage

  • The accumulation of snow on the mountain peak is a beautiful sight.
  • The accumulation of toxins in the liver can be harmful.
Context #3 | Noun

general

The act of gathering or amassing a large quantity of something.

Synonyms

aggregation, hoarding, stockpiling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
accumulation

General gathering or acquiring of items or resources, often over time.

  • The accumulation of wealth can take many years
  • The scientist studied the accumulation of data from various sources
aggregation

Bringing together different items, individuals, or data points into a single group or total.

  • The aggregation of student scores helps to determine the overall performance of the class
  • An aggregation of small businesses formed a cooperative
stockpiling

Amassing large quantities of items, usually in preparation for future use or emergencies.

  • Governments are stockpiling vaccines to ensure timely availability for the population
  • Many preppers are stockpiling food and water in case of disasters
hoarding

Collecting and keeping large amounts of items, often unnecessarily or in a secretive manner; has a negative connotation.

  • The hoarding of toilet paper during the pandemic led to shortages
  • Hoarding old newspapers can clutter your home

Examples of usage

  • The accumulation of evidence led to the suspect's arrest.
  • The accumulation of knowledge is essential for growth.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'accumulare', meaning 'to heap up'.
  • It was first used in English around the late 14th century.
  • The prefix 'ad-' means 'to' and 'cumulare' means 'to heap up', so it suggests adding to a heap.

Economics

  • In economics, accumulation often refers to the gathering of capital or resources, which can lead to wealth generation.
  • Savings and investments are key forms of accumulation that help individuals and businesses grow financially.
  • Excess accumulation in certain areas can lead to market saturation or bubbles, impacting economies.

Science

  • In ecology, accumulation of nutrients in a habitat can influence biodiversity and ecosystem health.
  • Oceanic accumulation of plastics has led to significant environmental concerns known as 'plastic pollution'.
  • The accumulation of gases, such as carbon dioxide, in the atmosphere is a major contributor to climate change.

Psychology

  • Accumulation can affect decision-making; as more information is gathered, it may lead to analysis paralysis.
  • The concept of 'cognitive accumulation' explains how knowledge builds over time to enhance learning.
  • Accumulation of stress can negatively impact mental health, highlighting the need for effective coping strategies.

Literature

  • Authors often explore themes of accumulation in characters’ experiences, portraying gradual change and development.
  • In poetry, the technique of accumulation can create rhythm through the layering of ideas or images.
  • The concept is a key element in narratives, where characters accumulate experiences that lead to personal growth.

Translations

Translations of the word "accumulation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 acumulação

🇮🇳 संचयन

🇩🇪 Akkumulation

🇮🇩 akumulasi

🇺🇦 накопичення

🇵🇱 akumulacja

🇯🇵 蓄積 (ちくせき)

🇫🇷 accumulation

🇪🇸 acumulación

🇹🇷 birikim

🇰🇷 축적 (積蓄)

🇸🇦 تراكم

🇨🇿 akumulace

🇸🇰 akumulácia

🇨🇳 积累 (jīlěi)

🇸🇮 akumulacija

🇮🇸 söfnun

🇰🇿 жинақтау

🇬🇪 გროვა

🇦🇿 yığım

🇲🇽 acumulación

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,153, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.