Brevetting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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brevetting
[brəˈvɛtɪŋ ]
Definition
formal process
Brevetting refers to the process of granting a brevet, which is a commission or rank given to someone, often in a military or academic context. It is commonly used when a person is promoted but may not receive the corresponding pay or benefits. The practice often acknowledges an individual's performance or qualifications without the formal elevation of their pay grade.
Synonyms
accreditation, commissioning, promotion.
Examples of usage
- The officer was breveted for his bravery in combat.
- She received a brevet for her contributions to the research project.
- The army decided to brevet several soldiers after their successful mission.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Military Traditions
- Brevetting allowed military leaders to reward soldiers during times of war without exhausting resources for full rank appointments.
- In some armies, brevet ranks come with a title but not the full pay or benefits that come with higher ranks.
- Certain famous generals gained brevet ranks during their service in pivotal battles, affecting their careers.
Cultural Representation
- Literature reflects brevetting through characters who navigate military politics, often depicting the complexities of rank and merit.
- Films about war sometimes highlight the tension and consequences associated with ranking systems, including brevet promotions.
- Artwork from military history often honors individuals who received brevet ranks for bravery.
Legal Aspects
- In some countries, brevet rank is legally recognized, while in others, it may be considered honorary.
- Regulations around brevetting can vary greatly between different branches of the military, even within the same country.
- A brevet rank can sometimes become a lifelong title, even if the individual retires from active service.
Psychological Impact
- Earning a brevet rank can boost morale among soldiers, recognizing their efforts in combat without traditional promotions.
- However, it can also create tension among peers, dividing those who see it as a symbol of honor versus those who see it as undeserved.
- Brevet ranks can influence group dynamics, fostering a sense of hierarchy and competition.
Origin of 'brevetting'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'brevet' comes from the French word 'brevet', meaning a letter or certificate.
- It started being used in the military to denote a soldier who was promoted temporarily without the standard requirements.
- The practice dates back to the 18th century, becoming more formalized during the American Civil War.
The term 'brevet' originates from the French word 'brevet', meaning 'brief' or 'official document', which itself comes from Latin 'brevis', meaning 'short'. The use of brevet as a military term can be traced back to the 19th century, where it started to denote the commission or appointment of a military officer to a higher rank without the full pay and benefits associated with that rank. The concept was particularly popular during times of war when many capable individuals could be recognized for their service without the need for additional salary costs. Over the years, the use of brevetting has expanded beyond military contexts to include various fields, such as academics and other organizations where acknowledgment of merit or achievement is necessary.