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Pioneering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pioneering

[หŒpaษชษ™หˆnษชษ™rษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in technology

Innovative, leading the way in new developments or ideas.

Synonyms

ahead of its time, groundbreaking, innovative, trailblazing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pioneering

Used to describe someone or something that is the first to do something, leading the way for others.

  • Marie Curie was a pioneering scientist in the field of radioactivity
  • Their pioneering work laid the foundation for modern medicine
innovative

Used to describe someone or something introducing new ideas, methods, or products.

  • The company is known for its innovative approach to problem-solving
  • She developed an innovative app that reshapes communication
groundbreaking

Refers to work or ideas that represent a significant change or new way of doing something.

  • The scientists made a groundbreaking discovery in cancer research
  • The authorโ€™s groundbreaking novel changed how people think about storytelling
trailblazing

Describes initiating new ideas or methods that others will follow, emphasizing being the first and leading by example.

  • Her trailblazing efforts in human rights have inspired others
  • The startup is trailblazing with its new technology
ahead of its time

Describes something that seems very advanced compared to others in its era, often only truly appreciated later.

  • The artistโ€™s work was ahead of its time, gaining recognition only years after her death
  • The technology was ahead of its time, offering features that are just now becoming common

Examples of usage

  • She was a pioneering figure in the field of computer science.
  • Their pioneering work revolutionized the industry.
Context #2 | Verb

in exploration

To be the first to explore or settle in (a new or unpopulated area).

Synonyms

colonize, explore, lead the way, settle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pioneering

When someone is the first to use or apply a new method or idea, especially in science, technology, or social change.

  • Marie Curie's pioneering research on radioactivity has shaped our understanding of the subject
explore

When someone is traveling or researching to discover new places, ideas, or things, usually in a non-invasive and open-minded manner.

  • Lewis and Clark were among the first to explore the western United States
settle

When people establish a community in a new area, making a place their permanent home. This may not always imply dominance like 'colonize'.

  • The Pilgrims settled in America in the early 17th century, forming new colonies and communities
colonize

When a country or group establishes control over a foreign territory and settles its people there, often with the implication of dominance and exploitation.

  • European powers sought to colonize many parts of Africa and Asia during the Age of Exploration
lead the way

When someone takes the initiative in a project, activity, or journey, guiding others through a process.

  • Elon Musk has led the way in advancing electric vehicles and space travel through his companies

Examples of usage

  • They were the first to pioneer the remote region.
  • The settlers pioneered the wild frontier.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • The field of immunology saw pioneering work that changed how we understand and treat diseases.
  • Marie Curie was a pioneering scientist in radioactivity, and her discoveries have had a lasting impact on medicine.
  • The invention of the bicycle in the 19th century can be considered pioneering, as it opened new avenues for personal transport.

Technology

  • The first programmable computer, created in the mid-20th century, was a pioneering development in technology.
  • The internet revolutionized communication and commerce, marking a pioneering change in how society operates.
  • Steve Jobs and Apple were pioneers of personal computing and technology design, making devices accessible to everyday people.

History

  • The Lewis and Clark expedition is often noted for pioneering the American West and mapping uncharted territory.
  • Throughout history, various explorers pioneered trade routes that connected cultures and civilizations.
  • Womenโ€™s suffrage was a pioneering movement that fought for women's right to vote, changing political landscapes worldwide.

Literature

  • James Joyceโ€™s 'Ulysses' is considered a pioneering work in modernist literature for its stream of consciousness technique.
  • The Beat Generation in the 1950s offered pioneering perspectives in poetry and prose, breaking conventional norms.
  • Frankenstein by Mary Shelley is often labeled as a pioneering novel in science fiction, exploring themes of creation and ethics.

Origin of 'pioneering'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'pionnier', which means 'foot soldier' or 'one who works at making paths'.
  • The term evolved in the 17th century to refer to those who opened up new lands and opportunities.
  • It has roots in the Latin word 'pionarius', meaning a maker of footpaths.

The word 'pioneering' originates from the verb 'pioneer', which comes from Middle French 'pionnier', meaning a foot soldier. The concept of pioneering has evolved over time to represent being the first to explore or innovate in various fields.

See also: pioneers.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,592, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.