Creativity: meaning, definitions and examples
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creativity
[ˌkriːeɪˈtɪvɪti ]
Definitions
artistic expression
The ability to use imagination to create new ideas or things, especially in the arts.
Synonyms
imagination, inventiveness, originality.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| creativity |
General use when referring to the ability to generate new ideas, solutions, or artistic expressions.
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| imagination |
Used when discussing the ability to form new images, sensations, or concepts in the mind that are not perceived through the senses.
|
| inventiveness |
Refers to the ability to create new ideas or things, often involving problem-solving and practical applications.
|
| originality |
Emphasizes unique or novel quality of ideas, often in artistic or intellectual contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- Her creativity as a painter was admired by all who saw her work.
- The company is known for encouraging creativity and innovation among its employees.
problem solving
The use of original and innovative thinking to come up with solutions to problems.
Synonyms
ingenuity, innovation, resourcefulness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| creativity |
Used when referring to the ability to generate original and imaginative ideas in any field.
|
| ingenuity |
Applies to cleverness and inventiveness, especially in solving problems or overcoming obstacles.
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| resourcefulness |
Refers to the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties, often with limited resources.
|
| innovation |
Best used when talking about introducing something new, such as methods, ideas, or products, typically in a business or technological context.
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Examples of usage
- Creativity is often cited as a key skill for effective problem solving.
- His creativity in finding solutions to complex issues was highly valued in the team.
personality trait
The quality of being creative or having a creative mind.
Synonyms
artistry, imagination, originality.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| creativity |
Use this when talking about the ability to come up with new and unique ideas or solutions; it is a general term that can apply to many fields like art, science, business, and more.
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| artistry |
This is best used when referring to skill in creating art or beauty, often emphasizing technique and craftsmanship. It's commonly associated with visual and performing arts.
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| imagination |
Use this when talking about the ability to form new ideas or concepts not present to the senses. It often relates to the mental visualization of scenarios, especially in creative writing or conversational context.
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| originality |
This is used to highlight the uniqueness and novelty of an idea or work. It often praises the fresh, inventive aspect of creativity.
|
Examples of usage
- Creativity is a trait that is highly sought after in many fields.
- She was hired for her position because of her known creativity and ability to think outside the box.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'creare', meaning 'to make or produce'.
- The suffix '-ivity' suggests a state or condition, so creativity is the state of producing new ideas.
- This term gained popularity in the 20th century, reflecting the rising value of individual expression in society.
Psychology
- Creativity is linked to divergent thinking, which involves generating multiple solutions to a problem.
- Studies suggest that being in a relaxed state can enhance creative thinking, as it allows free-flowing thoughts.
- Psychologists often associate creativity with personality traits like openness and risk-taking.
Art and Literature
- Many famous artists, such as Picasso and Van Gogh, were known for their innovative approaches to painting and expression.
- In literature, creativity has led to the emergence of new genres, blending traditional storytelling with modern themes.
- The concept of 'stream of consciousness' in writing showcases an unfiltered display of creativity.
Technology
- Many tech innovations, like smartphones and apps, are outcomes of creative thinking and problem-solving.
- The rise of artificial intelligence has sparked new conversations about the role of human creativity in a tech-driven world.
- Creative coding combines artistry with programming, leading to new forms of digital expression.
Education
- Many educational systems now emphasize creativity as a crucial skill for future success and adaptability.
- Project-based learning encourages students to engage creatively by solving real-world problems.
- Creativity workshops are becoming common, offering individuals tools and environments to enhance their creative skills.
Translations
Translations of the word "creativity" in other languages:
🇵🇹 criatividade
🇮🇳 रचनात्मकता
🇩🇪 Kreativität
🇮🇩 kreativitas
🇺🇦 креативність
🇵🇱 kreatywność
🇯🇵 創造性 (そうぞうせい)
🇫🇷 créativité
🇪🇸 creatividad
🇹🇷 yaratıcılık
🇰🇷 창의성 (chang-ui-seong)
🇸🇦 إبداع (ibda')
🇨🇿 kreativita
🇸🇰 kreativita
🇨🇳 创造力 (chuàngzàolì)
🇸🇮 ustvarjalnost
🇮🇸 sköpunargáfa
🇰🇿 шығармашылық
🇬🇪 შემოქმედება (shemoqmedeba)
🇦🇿 yaradıcılıq
🇲🇽 creatividad