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Collective: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ‘ฅ
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collective

[kษ™หˆlษ›ktษชv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

working together

In the context of working together, collective refers to a group of individuals who come together to achieve a common goal. It emphasizes the idea of collaboration and unity among members. Collectives can be seen in various settings such as communities, organizations, or movements.

Synonyms

collaborative, community, group.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
collective

Used when referring to a group of people acting together as a unified entity. Shared responsibility or ownership is often implied.

  • The collective effort of the team led to the project's success
  • The community formed a collective to manage the local park
group

A general term for a number of people or things that are located, gathered, or classified together. It does not necessarily imply cooperation or shared goals.

  • A group of friends decided to go on a backpacking trip
  • The company was divided into smaller groups for the training session
community

Refers to a group of people living in the same area or having a particular characteristic in common, often emphasizing social bonds and support.

  • The local community came together to organize a neighborhood watch
  • He felt a strong sense of belonging within his online gaming community
collaborative

Best used to describe situations where people or groups work together on a common task or goal, especially in a cooperative and productive manner.

  • The collaborative project between the two universities yielded groundbreaking research
  • The workshop was designed to be a collaborative experience, fostering teamwork

Examples of usage

  • The collective effort of the team led to the successful completion of the project.
  • The collective decision-making process involved all members of the group.
Context #2 | Noun

shared ownership

In the context of shared ownership, collective refers to a form of ownership where multiple individuals jointly own a particular asset or property. It highlights the idea of sharing resources and responsibilities among the owners. Collectives can be found in co-operative businesses, communal living arrangements, or shared workspaces.

Synonyms

common, joint, shared.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
collective

Used to describe actions, decisions, or efforts made by a group of people as a whole, often in an organized or cooperative manner.

  • The decision was made by the collective management team
  • The collective effort of the community helped rebuild the park
joint

Refers to actions, efforts, or responsibilities that involve two or more parties acting together, often implying formal or official cooperation.

  • They made a joint statement to the press
  • The countries signed a joint agreement on climate action
shared

Refers to something that is used or experienced by two or more people, indicating mutual access or participation.

  • They have shared responsibilities in the project
  • The roommates have a shared kitchen
common

Describes something that is shared by two or more people or things, often relating to characteristics, experiences, or resources.

  • They have a common interest in hiking
  • The two companies share a common goal

Examples of usage

  • The artist collective pooled their resources to open a shared studio space.
  • The collective ownership model allowed the residents to collectively manage the housing complex.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'collectivus,' which means 'gathered together.'
  • In the 15th century, 'collective' began to be used in English to describe groups of people or things.
  • 'Collective' originally described an idea where individuals unite for a common cause.

Social Science

  • Collective behavior is studied in sociology to understand how individuals act in groups, often leading to shared norms.
  • The concept of 'collective intelligence' refers to how groups can exhibit smarter decision-making than individuals alone.
  • Collective actions, like protests or movements, can lead to significant social change and are often fueled by shared grievances.

Pop Culture

  • Collective themes are popular in music, such as in band collaborations, where artists come together to create a unified sound.
  • In movies, ensemble casts exemplify the idea of collective storytelling, showcasing different characters working towards a common goal.
  • Collective mindfulness has emerged in contemporary culture, emphasizing the importance of community well-being and shared experiences.

Psychology

  • The 'collective unconscious' is a theory by Carl Jung indicating shared memories and archetypes among people across cultures.
  • Group dynamics, a psychological concept, studies how people interact within a collective setting, influencing behavior and attitudes.
  • Collective memory refers to how groups remember and interpret past events, shaping their identity and culture.

Economics

  • Collective bargaining is a process where workers negotiate with employers as a unified group to improve working conditions and wages.
  • Some economies promote collective ownership, where resources or enterprises are owned and managed by a group rather than individuals.
  • Cooperatives are a form of collective enterprise where members work together to meet common needs and goals, sharing profits equally.

Translations

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Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,537, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.