Originality: meaning, definitions and examples

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originality

[əˌrɪdʒɪˈnæləti ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

creative

The quality of being new, different, and interesting.

Synonyms

creativity, innovation, uniqueness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
originality	This word is used to express the quality of being novel and unique, often in ideas, writing, or art. It emphasizes the freshness and distinctiveness of the output. Her originality in her designs made her a well-known fashion designer. The originality of the plot made the book a best-seller.
creativity	'Creativity' refers to the ability to generate new and imaginative ideas, often involving artistic or inventive thinking. It's commonly used in contexts related to art, problem-solving, and innovation. The company values creativity and encourages employees to propose out-of-the-box solutions. His creativity shone through in his latest painting exhibition.
innovation	Innovation pertains to the introduction of new methods, ideas, or products. It's frequently used in business, technology, and scientific fields where advancements and improvements are the focus. The smartphone was an innovation that changed the way we communicate. The startup aims for innovation in renewable energy solutions.
uniqueness	Uniqueness deals with the state of being one of a kind or different from everyone or everything else. It can describe people, objects, or experiences that stand out for their singular characteristics. Her uniqueness is what makes her such an interesting character. This painting is valued for its uniqueness and historical importance.

Examples of usage

It's refreshing to see such originality in a world full of imitations.
His paintings are known for their originality and unique style.
The movie was praised for its originality in storytelling.
She always strives for originality in her fashion designs.
The originality of his ideas set him apart from other scientists.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

plagiarism

The act of copying or stealing someone else's ideas, words, or work and presenting them as one's own.

Synonyms

copying, plagiarizing, stealing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
originality	Use when emphasizing the creation of something new and unique, not derived from something else. Her artwork is celebrated for its originality. The originality of his ideas impressed the panel of judges.
copying	Applicable when reproducing or imitating something from an existing source. Can be used in neutral or instructional contexts. Copying the document will ensure everyone has a reference. He was caught copying answers during the exam.
stealing	Involves taking someone's property without permission. It is a general term and can apply to both tangible and intangible things, often used in a negative context. He was caught stealing money from the cash register. Stealing someone’s ideas and claiming them as your own is unethical.
plagiarizing	Used when someone is taking someone else's work or ideas and passing them off as their own, typically in an academic or professional setting. It has a strong negative connotation. She was accused of plagiarizing her thesis from an online source. Plagiarizing someone else’s article can lead to serious consequences.

Examples of usage

Plagiarism is a serious offense that can result in academic consequences.
The student was caught for plagiarism in his essay.
His lack of originality led him to resort to plagiarism for his art project.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

person

The quality of being unique and authentic in one's thoughts, actions, or creations.

Synonyms

creativity, individuality, uniqueness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
originality	Use when highlighting something new, novel, or unique in its creation or thought. Her originality in painting was admired by everyone
uniqueness	Focuses on the quality of being one of a kind. It often implies something special or rare. The uniqueness of the handmade jewelry attracted many customers
individuality	Emphasizes the unique characteristics or traits that distinguish a person from others. Often used in discussing personal expression or identity. She expressed her individuality through her unique fashion sense
creativity	Refers to the ability to produce artistic or intellectual work. Emphasizes the process of generating new ideas or concepts. His creativity shone through in the innovative design of the building

Examples of usage

She admired his originality in the way he approached problems.
His originality as an artist made him stand out in the industry.
Her originality in writing captivated the readers.
His sense of originality in fashion design was unmatched.
The originality of his character shone through in his performances.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'originalis', which means 'of the beginning' or 'first'.
The first known use of 'originality' in English was in the late 16th century.

Art and Literature

Many famous artists and writers are celebrated for their originality, often leading to new styles, like impressionism in painting.
The concept of originality has led to debates in literature about authorship and the use of inspiration versus imitation.

Psychology

Studies suggest people who embrace their originality tend to be more successful in creative fields.
Originality is often linked to cognitive flexibility — the ability to think outside conventional boundaries.

Business and Innovation

In the business world, originality can drive innovation, with companies seeking unique ideas to stand out in competitive markets.
Many successful startups are born from original ideas that solve existing problems in new ways.

Pop Culture

Television shows and movies often highlight the theme of originality, such as ‘The Breakfast Club’, which celebrates the uniqueness of its characters.
In music, artists known for their originality, like Prince or David Bowie, have had immense influence on various genres.

Translations

Translations of the word "originality" in other languages:

🇵🇹 originalidade

🇮🇳 मौलिकता

🇩🇪 Originalität

🇮🇩 orisinalitas

🇺🇦 оригінальність

🇵🇱 oryginalność

🇯🇵 独創性 (どくそうせい)

🇫🇷 originalité

🇪🇸 originalidad

🇹🇷 orijinallik

🇰🇷 독창성 (독창성)

🇸🇦 أصالة

🇨🇿 originalita

🇸🇰 originalita

🇨🇳 独创性 (dúchuàngxìng)

🇸🇮 izvirnost

🇮🇸 upprunaleiki

🇰🇿 түпнұсқалық

🇬🇪 ორიგინალურობა

🇦🇿 orijinallıq

🇲🇽 originalidad

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,179, 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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10176 spill
10177 warmed
10178 ventricle
10179 originality
10180 solicitation
10181 diocese
10182 quicker
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