Proliferation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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proliferation
[prษหlษชfษหreษชสษn ]
Definition
rapid increase of something
Proliferation refers to the rapid and often excessive increase in the number or quantity of something. It can be used to describe the spread or growth of various things, such as cells, weapons, ideas, or information.
Synonyms
expansion, growth, proliferance.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| proliferation |
Proliferation is often used to describe a rapid or sudden increase, especially in the context of things that may spread uncontrollably like technology, information, or even nuclear weapons. It often carries a slightly negative connotation because of the potential for overwhelming or harming existing structures.
|
| expansion |
Expansion typically refers to a steady and planned increase in size, number, or importance, often related to businesses, territories, or projects. It has a neutral or positive connotation, emphasizing growth or enhancement.
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| growth |
Growth is a general term that can be used in a variety of contexts, such as physical, economic, personal, or biological development. It is neutral and often positive, highlighting progress, development, or improvement over time.
|
| proliferance |
Proliferance is a less common term, generally synonymous with 'proliferation,' indicating a rapid and often excessive increase. It can be used in similar contexts but might sound more formal or literary.
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Examples of usage
- The proliferation of nuclear weapons is a major concern for global security.
- The internet has led to the proliferation of fake news and misinformation.
- The rapid proliferation of technology has transformed the way we communicate.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In biology, proliferation often refers to the rapid increase in cells, such as cancer cells which can multiply uncontrollably.
- The concept is critical in ecology where certain species can proliferate, affecting the balance of their ecosystems.
- In technology, the proliferation of devices like smartphones has transformed communication on a global scale.
Politics
- Nuclear proliferation refers to the spread of nuclear weapons and technology, raising concerns about global security.
- International treaties aim to control and prevent the proliferation of such weapons to promote peace.
- Efforts to manage the proliferation of arms are central to diplomatic negotiations between countries.
Economics
- In consumer markets, the proliferation of products can lead to increased competition, benefiting consumers.
- Economic proliferation can also refer to the rapid growth of startups, especially in tech hubs like Silicon Valley.
- Understanding how proliferation affects market dynamics helps businesses strategize effectively.
Technology
- The proliferation of the internet has revolutionized how people access information and connect with others.
- Advancements in technology can lead to the proliferation of new ideas or innovations at an unprecedented rate.
- Mobile apps show how technology can proliferate, with thousands of new applications released every year.
Origin of 'proliferation'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin 'proliferare', meaning 'to bear offspring'.
- Initially used in the context of biology to describe how cells multiply.
- The prefix 'pro-' means 'forth' and 'fer' means 'to carry', indicating the idea of carrying forth new life.
The word 'proliferation' originated from the Latin word 'proliferare', which means 'to bear offspring'. It first appeared in the English language in the mid-19th century. The concept of proliferation has been widely studied in various fields, including biology, technology, and social sciences, to understand the rapid growth and spread of different phenomena.
See also: proliferating.