Proximate: meaning, definitions and examples
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proximate
[ˈprɒksɪmət ]
Definitions
biology
Nearest in space; next in order; immediate; as, the proximate cause of a disease.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| proximate |
Use 'proximate' when describing something that is very close in space or time, especially when referring to cause-and-effect relationships or logical connections.
|
| nearest |
Use 'nearest' when referring to the shortest physical distance to a location or object.
|
| immediate |
Use 'immediate' when something is next in order or importance, without anything coming in between, often indicates urgency or promptness.
|
| closest |
Use 'closest' when you want to emphasize the smallest distance from something, can be physical or relational.
|
Examples of usage
- The proximate cause of the patient's symptoms was determined to be a bacterial infection.
- The proximate mechanism of action of the drug is still under investigation.
chemistry
Denoting an element or compound that is present in a substance in a small amount and is essential for the substance to exhibit a particular chemical or physical property.
Synonyms
essential, necessary, required.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| proximate |
Use this word when referring to something that is near in space, time, or relationship.
|
| essential |
Use this word to describe something that is absolutely necessary or extremely important.
|
| necessary |
Use this word to indicate that something is needed for a particular purpose or to achieve a particular result.
|
| required |
Use this word when something is demanded or mandatory, often following rules, regulations, or instructions.
|
Examples of usage
- The proximate element responsible for the color of the compound was identified through spectroscopy.
- The proximate compound in the mixture was crucial for the desired reaction to occur.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'proximatus,' meaning 'to approach' or 'near.'
- It is related to the word 'proximity,' which also speaks to closeness in space or time.
- The prefix 'pro-' indicates favoring or supporting, while 'ximus' implies nearness.
Science
- In ecology, the concept of proximate causes refers to immediate factors affecting an organism's behavior—like food availability.
- In psychology, proximate factors can describe immediate influences on behavior, distinguishing them from ultimate causes which are more distant or evolutionary.
- In physics, two objects are said to be proximate when they are in close physical or spatial relation to each other, which can affect their interaction.
Education
- In educational settings, understanding proximate learning can refer to interactive and close-knit group activities that promote peer learning.
- Teachers often create proximate learning environments, setting up group work or peer tutoring to facilitate engagement.
- Proximate assessment refers to evaluating students' progress in a way that directly reflects their capabilities with minimal delay.
Philosophy
- In philosophical discussions, proximate truths are examined for their immediate relevance to arguments, often contrasted with more abstract or distant truths.
- Proximate and ultimate moral obligations can be discussed, analyzing what actions we owe to others immediately versus in a broader sense.
- Philosophers may explore how proximate reasoning influences decision-making, focusing on immediate factors over long-term consequences.
Cultural References
- In literature, the proximate setting of a story often enhances character development by creating immediate environmental influences.
- Proximate events in history can lead to significant changes, like how minor local conflicts can escalate into larger wars.
- Films often use proximate themes where characters are physically close to each other, driving the plot through immediacy and relational tension.
Translations
Translations of the word "proximate" in other languages:
🇵🇹 próximo
🇮🇳 निकटतम
🇩🇪 nah
🇮🇩 dekat
🇺🇦 близький
🇵🇱 bliski
🇯🇵 近い
🇫🇷 proche
🇪🇸 próximo
🇹🇷 yakın
🇰🇷 가까운
🇸🇦 قريب
🇨🇿 blízký
🇸🇰 blízky
🇨🇳 接近的
🇸🇮 bližnji
🇮🇸 nálægt
🇰🇿 жақын
🇬🇪 ახლოს
🇦🇿 yaxın
🇲🇽 próximo