Associative Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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associative
[ษหsoสสiหeษชtษชv ]
Definition
mathematics, psychology
The term 'associative' refers to a property of certain operations in which the grouping of operands does not affect the result. For example, in mathematics, addition and multiplication are associative operations because (a + b) + c = a + (b + c) and (a * b) * c = a * (b * c). In psychology, it pertains to the way in which ideas or concepts can be linked or associated with one another in the mind.
Synonyms
connected, correlative, linked, related.
Examples of usage
- The associative property of addition allows for flexible grouping.
- Many associative networks represent how concepts are related.
- In associative learning, animals learn to associate stimuli with rewards.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Mathematics
- In math, the associative property means that the way numbers are grouped does not change their sum or product. For example, (2 + 3) + 4 is the same as 2 + (3 + 4).
- This concept is crucial in algebra and helps simplify complex calculations.
Psychology
- In psychology, associative learning refers to the process by which individuals learn to make connections between different stimuli or events, often illustrated by classical conditioning.
- This type of learning explains like why dogs salivate at the sound of a bell if they associate it with food.
Linguistics
- In linguistics, associative meaning relates to how words can invoke similar ideas or feelings in different contexts, much like synonyms or metaphors.
- The study of how associations between words affect communication is key to understanding language development.
Cognitive Science
- Cognitive theories often explore how humans form associative networks in their brains, connecting new information to existing knowledge.
- These networks help in memory recall, making it easier to learn and understand complex ideas.
Origin of 'associative'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'associative' comes from the Latin word 'associatus,' which means to join or connect.
- It first appeared in English usage in the 17th century, originally relating to companions or partnerships.
The word 'associative' originated from the Latin word 'associatus', which is the past participle of 'associaฬre', meaning 'to join together'. This Latin term is a combination of 'ad-', meaning 'to', and 'sociare', meaning 'to unite or ally'. The concept has been utilized in various fields, such as mathematics, where it describes operations applicable to multiple operands, and in psychology, where it relates to cognitive processes of linking thoughts and experiences. The use of 'associative' in English dates back to the early 19th century, solidifying its role in academic discussions regarding logical structures and cognitive frameworks.