Representatively Meaning: Definition and Examples

The Arts

• In visual art, works that are representatively styled often depict subjects in a recognizable form, unlike abstract art.
• The term can be used to describe performances, such as actors representing characters in a play, which allows audiences to connect emotionally with the story.
• In literature, an author might use representatively written characters to illustrate broader social issues, acting as a mirror to society.

Psychology

• In psychology, using representatively assessed strategies can involve selecting actions based on how well they reflect the desired outcome.
• Cognitive biases, like the representativeness heuristic, can influence how people make decisions based on perceived similarities.
• Understanding how individuals representatively perceive social roles helps researchers study identity and group dynamics.

Politics

• Representatively designed electoral systems, like proportional representation, aim to reflect the electorate's diverse opinions more accurately in political outcomes.
• Political representatives are chosen specifically to act representatively on behalf of their constituents in governmental matters.
• The concept of representativeness also applies to how populations are sampled in surveys to ensure accurate public opinion representation.

Education

• In education, using representatively varied materials helps cater to different learning styles and improves student engagement.
• Teachers aim to representatively showcase diverse voices and perspectives in their curricula to reflect a broader society.
• Assessment methods in education often strive to be representatively fair to ensure all students have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their understanding.

Main points about word origin

• The word combines 'represent' meaning to act on behalf of, and the suffix '-atively,' which indicates the manner of action.
• It originated from the Latin verb 'repraesentare' which means 'to present again or to show anew.'
• The term began to be widely used in English literature in the mid-19th century, reflecting growing interest in representation in politics and society.

The adverb 'representatively' derives from the word 'representative', which is rooted in the Latin word 'repraesentare', meaning to 'present again'. The use of representative in its various forms dates back to the late 14th century, originally connected to the idea of acting on behalf of someone or something else. As the English language evolved, 'representatively' came to refer specifically to actions or representations that exemplify or symbolize wider concepts, groups, or ideals. It captures the essence of conveying characteristics or qualities that are true to the original source, enabling a deeper understanding through symbolic representation. Over time, the term has found usage in various fields, including politics, art, and sociology, reflecting its adaptability and relevance.