Correspondence: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'correspondere', which means 'to respond to' or 'to agree with'.
• It has been used in English since the late 14th century, originally referring to letters exchanged between individuals.
• The prefix 'cor-' means 'together', while 'spondere' means 'to pledge', indicating a mutual agreement in communication.

History

• In medieval times, correspondence was essential for trade, diplomacy, and personal relationships, as people relied on letters to maintain connections.
• The 19th century saw a huge increase in letter writing thanks to the postal system, making it easier for families and friends to stay in touch.
• The invention of the telegraph in the mid-1800s began to shift the landscape of correspondence by speeding up communication.

Literature

• Letter writing has been a popular narrative device in literature, used by authors to deepen character development and plot.
• Famous literary works, like 'Letters to a Young Poet' by Rainer Maria Rilke, reflect intimate thoughts and dialogues through correspondence.
• Epistolary novels, such as 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker, rely entirely on letters to tell the story and give emotional depth.

Psychology

• Correspondence can help maintain relationships, as exchanging thoughts and feelings fosters emotional bonds and support.
• Writing letters can be a therapeutic exercise, helping individuals articulate their feelings and reflect on their experiences.
• Online correspondence—like emails and messages—has transformed how people connect but can also lead to feelings of isolation if over-relied upon.

Pop Culture

• The rise of email in the late 20th century changed traditional correspondence, leading to faster and more casual conversations.
• Popular TV shows, like 'Gilmore Girls', often illustrate the importance of correspondence between characters, emphasizing the depth of their relationships.
• Social media has created a new form of correspondence, allowing people to share updates instantly with a vast audience, while sometimes reducing personal connections.

Ranking #3,026, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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