Derived: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something is developed or obtained from a specific source, often through reasoning or calculation.

• The word 'biology' is derived from the Greek words 'bios' and 'logos'.
• The data is derived from several different studies.

Used when something is acquired or gained, usually through effort or action.

• She obtained her degree from a prestigious university.
• The results were obtained after a series of tests.

Used when something is given or delivered to a person, usually in the context of communication or physical delivery.

• She received a gift from her friend.
• I received an email with the meeting details.

Used when something is removed or taken out from a larger whole, often through a physical or chemical process.

• The juice is extracted from fresh oranges.
• DNA was extracted from the blood samples.

Utilize when referring to something that has originated or been obtained from something else, such as a source or method.

• The medicine is derived from natural herbs.
• Her strength is derived from her supportive family.

Appropriate for contexts that involve tracking or following the origin, development, or history of something.

• They could trace the genealogy back to the 18th century.
• The pathologist was able to trace the spread of the virus.

Employ in situations where the goal is to find out or confirm information through investigation or examination.

• The detective worked to ascertain the cause of the fire.
• He couldn’t ascertain the right answer without more data.

Best used when revealing something hidden or discovering something not previously known, often with an element of surprise or revelation.

• The archaeologist uncovered ancient ruins.
• Journalists worked to uncover the truth about the scandal.