Derive: meaning, definitions and examples

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derive

[dəˈrīv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

mathematics

Obtain something from (a specified source). To reach a conclusion by reasoning; deduce. To originate from; have as a source. To obtain or receive from a source.

Synonyms

deduce, obtain, originate, receive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
derive	Used when something is obtained from a specific source, often implying a process of extraction or calculation. Scientists can derive important data from these experiments. Many English words are derived from Latin.
obtain	Used when acquiring or gaining possession of something, often through effort or formal means. You need to obtain permission before you can enter the restricted area. She managed to obtain a copy of the report.
deduce	Used when reaching a conclusion or making a judgment based on available information or evidence. From the clues left behind, the detective could deduce what had happened. We can deduce from her expression that she is not happy.
originate	Used when something begins, is created, or comes from a particular place or time. The tradition originates from ancient Rome. This recipe originates from my grandmother.
receive	Used when getting or being given something, usually without implying significant effort on the part of the receiver. I received a gift from my friend. He received many awards for his work.

Examples of usage

I derived my information from various sources.
We can derive this result from the equation.
The word 'alphabet' is derived from the first two letters of the Greek alphabet.
She derives great pleasure from helping others.
The company derives most of its income from exports.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

chemistry

To obtain or extract (a substance) from a source.

Synonyms

extract, obtain, procure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
derive	Used when something is obtained or developed from a source, often in an abstract or non-physical sense. Often seen in scientific, mathematical, or theoretical contexts. She derived great satisfaction from helping others The equation was derived from basic principles
extract	Often used when something is taken out from a larger whole, typically by using effort or force. Common in contexts involving physical removal or detailed data retrieval. The dentist had to extract the tooth They extracted information from the data set
obtain	Generally used when something is acquired or received as a result of effort or request. It is neutral and can apply to a wide range of contexts. She obtained her degree in biology They were able to obtain permission from the authorities
procure	Used when something is acquired but often implies a special effort, negotiation, or arrangement. It has a formal tone and can be used in business or official contexts. He procured the necessary documents for the project They had to procure funding from multiple sources

Examples of usage

Vitamin D can be derived from sunlight.
Essential oils are derived from plants.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

finance

Obtain (something) from a specified source.

Synonyms

obtain, receive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
derive	Use this when indicating that something has been obtained or developed from a certain source. It's often used in scientific, academic, or formal contexts. The English word 'alcohol' is derived from the Arabic 'al-kuḥl'. He derived great satisfaction from helping others.
obtain	Use this when talking about acquiring something through effort, planning, or request. It’s commonly used in formal and professional contexts. She managed to obtain all the necessary permits for the construction. They obtained valuable data from their research.
receive	Use this when something is given or sent to someone. It is more general and can be used in everyday, formal, or professional situations. I received your letter yesterday. She received a warm welcome from the audience.

Word

Description / Examples

derive

Use this when indicating that something has been obtained or developed from a certain source. It's often used in scientific, academic, or formal contexts.

The English word 'alcohol' is derived from the Arabic 'al-kuḥl'.
He derived great satisfaction from helping others.

obtain

Use this when talking about acquiring something through effort, planning, or request. It’s commonly used in formal and professional contexts.

She managed to obtain all the necessary permits for the construction.
They obtained valuable data from their research.

receive

Use this when something is given or sent to someone. It is more general and can be used in everyday, formal, or professional situations.

I received your letter yesterday.
She received a warm welcome from the audience.

Examples of usage

The company's main income is derived from investments.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'derivare', meaning 'to draw off' or 'to lead away'.
In Old French, it transformed into 'deriver', keeping the meaning of drawing or flowing from a source.

Mathematics

In calculus, we 'derive' or find the derivative to understand how a function changes at any given point.
The concept of derivatives is fundamental in measuring rates of change, essential in physics and engineering.

Linguistics

Words in English can 'derive' from various languages, enriching vocabulary and showcasing cultural influence.
Understanding how words are derived helps in learning new languages, since many share root origins.

Cultural Context

Many English phrases 'derive' meaning from idioms and sayings that originated in ancient cultures.
Culinary techniques often 'derive' from traditional recipes, preserving the culture in modern cuisines.

Science

In biology, new species can 'derive' from evolutionary processes, highlighting how life adapts over time.
Chemistry offers examples where compounds 'derive' from simpler substances through reactions and bonding.

Translations

Translations of the word "derive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 derivar

🇮🇳 व्युत्पन्न करना

🇩🇪 ableiten

🇮🇩 menurunkan

🇺🇦 виводити

🇵🇱 pochodzić

🇯🇵 導き出す (みちびきだす)

🇫🇷 dériver

🇪🇸 derivar

🇹🇷 türetmek

🇰🇷 유도하다 (yudohada)

🇸🇦 اشتق

🇨🇿 odvodit

🇸🇰 odvodiť

🇨🇳 推导 (tuīdǎo)

🇸🇮 izpeljati

🇮🇸 leiða út

🇰🇿 шығару

🇬🇪 გამოყვანა

🇦🇿 törətmək

🇲🇽 derivar

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,152 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
5149 indications
5150 erect
5151 recipient
5152 derive
5153 symbolic
5154 execute
5155 destructive
...