Omitting: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'omit' comes from the Latin 'omittere', which means 'to let go' or 'to leave out'.
• It evolved into Middle French as 'omettre' before reaching English in the early 16th century.
• Its structure reflects the Latin roots: 'ob-' (against) and 'mittere' (to send), symbolizing the act of sending something away.

Usage in Language

• In writing and speaking, omitting can lead to misunderstandings or emphasize particular points by not mentioning everything.
• Many common writing styles, such as academic writing, often require omitting unnecessary words to tighten the text.
• Omitting can also be a powerful rhetorical strategy, as leaving out specific details may provoke curiosity or engagement.

Psychology

• Omitting details can be a cognitive process influenced by what we deem significant or irrelevant during communication.
• People might omit information unconsciously when recalling memories, leading to gaps or distortion in narratives.
• Studies suggest that selective omitting can create biases, shaping how events or facts are perceived by others.

Cultural Impact

• In certain cultures, omitting direct responses can reflect politeness or avoid conflict, known as 'face-saving' communication.
• Omission is a common theme in storytelling, where what is left unsaid can be as powerful as the spoken narrative.
• Art and music sometimes use omitting techniques to create tension, allowing audiences to fill in gaps with their imagination.

Education

• In teaching writing, educators often emphasize the importance of omitting redundant words for clarity and precision.
• Omitting irrelevant information during academic research is crucial in developing strong, focused arguments.
• Many learning methods encourage students to practice omitting unnecessary details to improve summarization skills.

Ranked #11,806, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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