Decomposing: meaning, definitions and examples

🔍
Add to dictionary

decomposing

 

[ˌdiːˈkɒmpəʊzɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

mental health

The process of breaking down and analyzing one's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to gain a better understanding of oneself. It involves examining the underlying causes of one's feelings and actions.

Synonyms

analyzing, breaking down, dissecting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
decomposing

Typically used in scientific or biological contexts to describe the process of organic matter breaking down into simpler substances.

  • The leaves are decomposing on the forest floor.
  • The compost pile is full of decomposing vegetable scraps.
analyzing

Often used in academic, business, or technical settings when examining data, information, or situations systematically.

  • She spent hours analyzing the data from her experiment.
  • The team is analyzing the market trends to forecast next quarter's sales.
dissecting

Commonly used in educational or scientific contexts, particularly in biology, to describe the cutting open of organisms to study their internal parts.

  • In biology class, we spent the day dissecting frogs.
  • The film critics are dissecting every scene from the new movie.
breaking down

Can be used informally to describe the process of separating something into smaller parts or explaining something in simpler terms.

  • The teacher is good at breaking down complex topics for the students.
  • Breaking down the problem into smaller steps made it easier to solve.

Examples of usage

  • Therapists often use techniques such as journaling and mindfulness to help clients with decomposing their thoughts and emotions.
  • Through decomposing her past experiences, she was able to identify patterns in her behavior that she wanted to change.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • Derived from the Latin 'decomponere', which means to put down or take apart.
  • First known use of the term dates back to the early 17th century, highlighting its longstanding presence in language.

Science

  • Decomposition is a crucial process in ecosystems, helping recycle nutrients back into the soil.
  • It involves several stages: initial decay, putrefaction, and mineralization, each led by different organisms.
  • Fungi and bacteria play a key role, breaking down complex organic compounds into simpler substances.

Environmental Importance

  • Decomposing materials improve soil quality, making it richer for future plant growth.
  • Composting is a popular practice that encourages controlled decomposition to recycle waste into fertilizers.

Culture

  • Many cultures have myths about the cycle of life and death, often referencing the importance of decay as a natural part of life.
  • In literature, decomposition is often used as a metaphor for change, endings, and new beginnings.

Psychology

  • Understanding the process of decay can help individuals cope with the loss, as it reflects the natural cycle of life.
  • Some studies suggest that acknowledging decomposition can lead to a better appreciation of life and sustainability.

Translations

Translations of the word "decomposing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 decomposição

🇮🇳 विघटन

🇩🇪 Zersetzung

🇮🇩 dekomposisi

🇺🇦 розкладання

🇵🇱 rozkład

🇯🇵 分解 (ぶんかい)

🇫🇷 décomposition

🇪🇸 descomposición

🇹🇷 çözülme

🇰🇷 분해 (bunhae)

🇸🇦 تحلل

🇨🇿 rozklad

🇸🇰 rozklad

🇨🇳 分解 (fēnjiě)

🇸🇮 razpad

🇮🇸 niðurbrot

🇰🇿 ыдырау

🇬🇪 დაშლა

🇦🇿 parçalanma

🇲🇽 descomposición

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,882, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.