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Constitutive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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constitutive

[kษ™nหˆstษชtสƒสŠtษชv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

legal context

The term 'constitutive' refers to something that is essential to the formation or establishment of something else. It often describes elements that form the foundational basis for legal documents, organizations, or systems. For instance, constitutive elements of a corporation include its charter and bylaws, which outline how the organization operates. In essence, anything that is constitutive plays an integral role in the existence and functioning of another entity.

Synonyms

essential, foundational, fundamental.

Examples of usage

  • The constitutive documents of the non-profit are essential for its operation.
  • His views were considered constitutive of the group's philosophy.
  • Constitutive principles of law ensure justice and equality.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal contexts, 'constitutive' often describes elements that create laws or constitutions.
  • Constitutional laws are foundational rules that govern a country, making certain principles constitutive for its legal framework.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers discuss the 'constitutive' elements of identity, examining what makes someone who they are.
  • In social theory, constitutive theories explore how social interactions help shape norms and values.

Science

  • In biology, the term refers to components that are essential for the development of an organism.
  • Molecular biology often identifies constitutive genes that are constantly expressed to maintain basic cellular functions.

Art and Literature

  • In art, certain motifs can be constitutive in building a particular style, like the repeated themes in an artist's work.
  • Literary theories may argue that specific narrative structures are constitutive elements that define a genre.

Origin of 'constitutive'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Latin word 'constitutivus', meaning 'establishing or setting up'.
  • The term started gaining popularity in the 18th century, especially in legal and philosophical contexts.

The word 'constitutive' originates from the Latin term 'constitutivus', which means 'having the power to establish or frame'. This Latin term is derived from 'constitut-', the past participle of 'constituere', which means 'to set up or establish'. The prefix 'con-' implies bringing together or joining, while 'statuere' means to set or place. Since the 14th century, 'constitutive' has been used in the English language, particularly in legal and philosophical contexts, to describe elements that are essential in forming or shaping entities. Over time, its usage has broadened, and today it is commonly found in discussions of governance, law, and social structures.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,463, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.