Extraction: meaning, definitions and examples

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extraction

 

[ɪkˈstrakʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

data processing

The action of extracting something, especially using effort or force.

Synonyms

removal, withdrawal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
extraction

Often used in contexts involving the removal of something by force or with careful effort. Commonly appears in medical, mining, or data contexts.

  • The dentist performed an extraction of the wisdom tooth.
  • Gold extraction from the mine requires advanced technology.
  • Data extraction from the database was completed successfully.
removal

Used in general contexts where something is being taken away or eliminated. Can imply a less technical or less forceful process.

  • The removal of graffiti from the wall took several hours.
  • They scheduled the removal of the old furniture for next Friday.
  • The removal of stains from the carpet was quite effective.
withdrawal

Used when talking about taking something back or out, often in financial contexts or when referring to stopping participation in something. May carry a formal connotation.

  • He made a withdrawal of $500 from his bank account.
  • The athlete announced his withdrawal from the competition.
  • Withdrawal of support from the project caused delays.

Examples of usage

  • Data extraction is a crucial step in the data processing pipeline.
  • The extraction of minerals from the earth is a complex process.
Context #2 | Noun

dental

The process of removing a tooth or teeth.

Synonyms

dental extraction, tooth removal.

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Word Description / Examples
extraction

This is the same word as the first entry but listed again. The context involves any general removal process.

  • Oil extraction is a major industry in the Middle East.
  • The extraction of wisdom teeth can sometimes be a complicated procedure.
tooth removal

A more informal term for dental extraction, used in everyday conversations or layman's terms when referring to the removal of a tooth.

  • I had to go to the dentist for a tooth removal yesterday.
  • He was nervous about the upcoming tooth removal.
dental extraction

Used specifically in the context of dentistry to denote the removal of a tooth. This term is most appropriate during medical or professional discussions related to dental procedures.

  • The patient needed a dental extraction due to severe tooth decay.
  • Dental extractions are often performed under local anesthesia.

Examples of usage

  • She underwent a tooth extraction at the dentist's office.
Context #3 | Noun

chemistry

The process of obtaining a substance from a mixture or solution by physical or chemical means.

Synonyms

purification, separation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
extraction

Use 'extraction' when you are talking about removing something from a larger whole, often through a physical or chemical process.

  • The extraction of oil from the ground is a complex process.
  • Dental extraction is needed for the decayed tooth.
separation

Use 'separation' for processes that divide a mixture into individual components without necessarily making them pure.

  • Magnetic separation is used to remove metal from waste.
  • The separation of oil and vinegar in a salad dressing is a simple example of this process.
purification

Use 'purification' to refer to the process of making something pure by removing contaminants or unwanted elements.

  • Water purification ensures that the water is safe to drink.
  • The purification of the air is crucial in industrial settings.

Examples of usage

  • The extraction of caffeine from coffee beans involves several steps.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'extraction' comes from the Latin term 'extractio', which means 'to draw out'.
  • It first appeared in English around the late 14th century, primarily used in medicine or chemistry.
  • The prefix 'ex-' means 'out of', and 'tract' relates to 'pulling', making the literal meaning 'pulling out'.

Science

  • In chemistry, extraction is often a method to separate a substance from a mixture using solvents.
  • In the field of medicine, extraction can refer to the process of removing teeth or other body parts for health reasons.
  • The extraction technique is also crucial in the oil and gas industry, where resources are extracted from deep within the earth.

Literature

  • In literature, 'extraction' may refer to the removal of text or ideas from a larger body of work to analyze or criticize.
  • It is often used in historical texts to refer to the historical context and key elements being 'extracted' for research.
  • Writer George Orwell employed the concept of extraction in his critiques, focusing on removing unnecessary elements to clarify his ideas.

Pop Culture

  • The term gained more attention with the release of the 2020 action thriller film 'Extraction', which revolves around the rescue of a kidnapped child.
  • Video games frequently use extraction mechanics, where players have to gather resources and safely 'extract' them from hazards.
  • The term is often tied to narratives surrounding bounty hunters or mercenaries who must extract important targets from dangerous situations.

Psychology

  • In psychology, extraction can refer to the removal of negative thoughts or beliefs through therapy.
  • Techniques that involve extracting valuable insights from conversations or behaviors are part of qualitative research methods.
  • The success of extracting personal insights often leads to greater self-awareness and healing within therapeutic practices.

Translations

Translations of the word "extraction" in other languages:

🇵🇹 extração

🇮🇳 निकर्षण

🇩🇪 Extraktion

🇮🇩 ekstraksi

🇺🇦 екстракція

🇵🇱 ekstrakcja

🇯🇵 抽出 (ちゅうしゅつ)

🇫🇷 extraction

🇪🇸 extracción

🇹🇷 ekstraksiyon

🇰🇷 추출 (chuchul)

🇸🇦 استخراج

🇨🇿 extrakce

🇸🇰 extrakcia

🇨🇳 提取 (tíqǔ)

🇸🇮 ekstrakcija

🇮🇸 útdráttur

🇰🇿 өндіру

🇬🇪 ამოღება

🇦🇿 çıxarma

🇲🇽 extracción

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,642, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.