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Demystifying: meaning, definitions and examples

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demystifying

 

[ dɪˈmɪstəˌfaɪɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

explaining, clarifying

Demystifying refers to the process of making something easier to understand by removing the mystery or confusion surrounding it. This often involves breaking down complex ideas or jargon into simpler, more relatable terms. The aim is to enable a clearer understanding and to dispel myths or misconceptions. This term is widely used in educational contexts, as well as in discussions about complex topics such as science, technology, or finance.

Synonyms

clarifying, explaining, simplifying, unraveling

Examples of usage

  • The teacher is demystifying algebra for her students.
  • The article aims at demystifying the concept of artificial intelligence.
  • He spent years demystifying the world of investment.
  • Demystifying science can make it more accessible to the public.

Translations

Translations of the word "demystifying" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desmistificando

🇮🇳 रहस्योद्घाटन करना

🇩🇪 Entmystifizierung

🇮🇩 membongkar

🇺🇦 демістифікація

🇵🇱 demistyfikacja

🇯🇵 デミスティファイ

🇫🇷 démystification

🇪🇸 desmitificación

🇹🇷 demistifiye etme

🇰🇷 신비를 벗기다

🇸🇦 إزالة الغموض

🇨🇿 demystifikace

🇸🇰 demystifikácia

🇨🇳 去神秘化

🇸🇮 demistifikacija

🇮🇸 afmystifíng

🇰🇿 демистификация

🇬🇪 დემისტიფიკაცია

🇦🇿 demistifikasiya

🇲🇽 desmitificación

Etymology

The term 'demystifying' is derived from the prefix 'de-', which means to remove or reverse, and the root 'mystify,' which comes from the Greek word 'mystikos,' meaning 'mysterious' or 'secret.' The act of mystification has historical roots in various cultural and philosophical traditions, where certain knowledge or practices were kept hidden from the general populace. Over time, as society progressed, a growing emphasis on transparency and understanding led to the need for demystification. Particularly in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, as access to information expanded with the advent of the internet, there has been a significant push to demystify complex topics, such as science or finance, so that they can be more accessible to all. This evolution reflects a broader cultural shift towards valuing education, critical thinking, and empowerment through knowledge.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,871, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.