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Derivation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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derivation

[ˌdɛrɪˈveɪʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

study

The action of obtaining something from a source or origin.

Synonyms

origin, root, source.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
derivation

Used in a technical or academic context to refer to the process of obtaining something from a source or the origin of a word or concept.

  • The derivation of this formula is quite complex.
  • Linguists often study the derivation of words to understand how languages evolve.
origin

Used to describe the beginning or source of something, often in a historical or geographical sense.

  • The origin of the river can be traced to the mountains.
  • He is researching the origin of ancient civilizations.
source

Refers to the place or thing from which something comes, arises, or is obtained. It is commonly used in both everyday language and technical contexts.

  • She cited her sources in the bibliography.
  • The river's source is in the nearby mountains.
root

Commonly used to indicate the fundamental basis or underlying cause of something. It can also refer to the basic form of a word in linguistics.

  • To solve the problem, we need to address its root causes.
  • The root of the word 'bicycle' is 'cycle', which means 'circle'.

Examples of usage

  • The derivation of the word 'computer' is from the Latin word 'computare'.
  • The derivation of this theory can be traced back to ancient Greek philosophy.
Context #2 | Noun

linguistics

The historical development of a word or morpheme.

Synonyms

etymology, history, origin.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
derivation

Used mostly in linguistics and mathematics. In linguistics, it refers to the development of a word from its root form. In mathematics, it signifies deriving a new formula or result from known facts.

  • The derivation of the word 'electricity' can be traced back to the Latin word 'electricus'.
  • The derivation of this equation took several steps.

Examples of usage

  • The derivation of the English word 'telephone' can be traced back to Greek roots.
  • Understanding the derivation of words can provide insights into their meanings.
Context #3 | Noun

mathematics

The process of deducing a new formula, theorem, etc., from previously known information.

Synonyms

deduction, inference.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
derivation

Use 'derivation' when discussing how something is developed or evolved from something else, often used in mathematical or linguistic contexts.

  • The derivation of this formula took several hours
  • The linguist explained the derivation of the word 'student' from Latin
deduction

Use 'deduction' when talking about the process of reaching a conclusion based on general principles or known facts. This term is common in logical reasoning, science, and detective work.

  • Sherlock Holmes is famous for his powers of deduction
  • From these premises, we can make a deduction about the outcome
inference

Use 'inference' when referring to the process of drawing a conclusion from evidence or reasoning. It is less formal than 'deduction' and used in everyday situations.

  • Based on the footprints, I made the inference that someone had been here recently
  • The data allow us to make an inference about customer behavior

Examples of usage

  • Mathematicians use derivation to prove mathematical theorems.
  • The derivation of this formula involves multiple steps.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Linguistics

  • In grammar, derivation refers to the creation of new words by adding prefixes or suffixes to existing words.
  • For example, adding '-ing' turns 'run' into 'running', showing the derivation process in action.
  • Linguists study derivation not just to track word origins but also to understand language structure and evolution.

Education

  • Understanding derivation can help students expand their vocabulary by recognizing roots and affixes.
  • Teachers often use derivational patterns to help learners decode unfamiliar words.
  • Curriculums around the world incorporate derivation to enhance both reading comprehension and writing skills.

Mathematics

  • In calculus, derivation refers to the process of finding a derivative, which measures how a function changes.
  • This mathematical concept is vital for analyzing graphs and understanding the behavior of functions.
  • The term emphasizes the broader usage of 'derivation' beyond language, showcasing its versatility in different fields.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Many cultures have their own forms of word derivation based on their histories and linguistic evolution.
  • Studies of derivation in various languages highlight how societies influence and shape their communication over time.
  • Language borrowing, a form of derivation, can tell us a lot about historical contact between different cultures.

Origin of 'derivation'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin 'derivare', meaning 'to draw off or remove from'.
  • Many modern languages, including English, borrow words and roots from older languages like Latin and Greek.
  • The concept of derivation is crucial in linguistics for understanding how words evolve and change over time.

The word 'derivation' originated from the Latin word 'derivatio', which is derived from the verb 'derivare' meaning 'to lead or draw off'. The term has been used in various fields such as linguistics, mathematics, and study to refer to the process of obtaining something from a source or origin, the historical development of a word, or the process of deducing new information. The concept of derivation has been integral to understanding the origins and evolution of words, theories, and formulas.

See also: derivable, derivative, derive, derived.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,959 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.