Synthesis: meaning, definitions and examples

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synthesis

[ˈsɪnθəsɪs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

chemistry

The combining of elements to form a coheive whole.

Synonyms

combination, fusion, union.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
synthesis	Used in contexts of combining different ideas, substances, or elements to form a coherent whole, often in scientific or intellectual discussions. The synthesis of their research resulted in a groundbreaking discovery. Philosophers often perform a synthesis of various schools of thought.
combination	Commonly used when referring to putting together different things to form a whole, can be used in everyday contexts as well as formal discussions. A combination of luck and skill helped them win the game. The recipe is a combination of traditional and modern cooking techniques.
union	Often used in contexts of bringing together people or groups, implying a formal or deliberate coming together for a common purpose. The labor union negotiated better working conditions for its members. The union of the two companies created a more powerful entity in the market.
fusion	Typically used when referring to the process of merging different elements into a single entity, often in contexts of culture, art, or cuisine. Their music is a fusion of jazz and classical styles. Fusion cuisine blends flavors from different culinary traditions.

Examples of usage

The synthesis of hydrogen and oxygen to form water is a common chemical reaction.
Chemists use synthesis to create new compounds.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

literature

The combination of separate elements to form a whole work of art.

Synonyms

combination, fusion, integration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
synthesis	Use when referring to the process of combining different ideas, elements, or components to form a coherent whole, often in scientific or academic contexts. The synthesis of this new compound could lead to breakthrough medical innovations. Her paper is a brilliant synthesis of multiple theories.
combination	Use when describing the act of combining two or more different things, often in a general or everyday context. Pizza is a delicious combination of cheese, sauce, and bread. Their business strategy is a combination of marketing and customer service.
integration	Use when referring to the process of incorporating parts into a whole, often in the context of systems, technology, or social processes. The integration of new software into the existing system will take about a week. Community integration programs are essential for helping immigrants settle into their new surroundings.
fusion	Use when talking about merging different elements together to form something new, often in the context of arts, culture, or cuisine. The restaurant is famous for its unique fusion of Asian and European cuisine. The band's music is a fusion of jazz and electronic styles.

Examples of usage

The novel is a synthesis of different genres.
His style is a synthesis of classical and modern influences.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

philosophy

The combination of ideas to form a coherent system or theory.

Synonyms

combination, integration, merger.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
synthesis	Useful when discussing the combination of elements to form a coherent whole, usually in academic or scientific contexts. The synthesis of different theories provided a new perspective on the issue The research focused on the synthesis of new organic compounds
combination	Generally applied to everyday contexts or simple merging of elements, sometimes with a focus on the physical joining together. The combination of colors in the painting is very appealing He achieved success through a combination of hard work and luck
integration	Often used in contexts implying the incorporation of elements into a larger, comprehensive system, frequently mentioned in technology or social sciences. The integration of new software with existing systems was seamless The school promotes the integration of students from diverse backgrounds
merger	Most commonly used in business contexts to describe the formal joining of two companies or organizations. The merger of the two companies created a dominating force in the market There are many challenges to consider in a business merger

Examples of usage

The philosopher attempted a synthesis of Eastern and Western thought.
Hegel's dialectical method involves thesis, antithesis, and synthesis.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek 'synthesis', meaning 'a putting together'.
In the 19th century, the term gained popularity in scientific contexts, especially in chemistry.
The prefix 'syn-' means 'with' or 'together', while 'thesis' means 'placing' or 'putting'.

Science

In chemistry, synthesis refers to creating complex compounds from simpler ones, like making water from hydrogen and oxygen.
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy by synthesizing glucose from carbon dioxide and water.
In biology, protein synthesis is crucial, as it helps cells create proteins necessary for life functions.

Philosophy

Synthesis is a key concept in Hegelian philosophy, where ideas evolve through a process of thesis, antithesis, and synthesis.
It represents the resolution of contradictions, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of concepts.
The idea suggests that higher levels of understanding can emerge from combining different viewpoints or ideas.

Literature

In literature, synthesis can refer to the blending of multiple genres or styles to create a unique narrative.
Authors often synthesize themes from various cultural backgrounds to enrich their storytelling and engage a diverse audience.
Works like Shakespeare’s plays often showcase synthesis, wherein classical themes are merged with everyday life experiences.

Pop Culture

Many modern music genres, like fusion or electronic, are based on the synthesis of different musical styles and cultural influences.
Video games often synthesize elements from various genres to create dynamic and engaging gameplay experiences.
In the realm of fashion, designers frequently experiment with synthesis, combining traditional attire with contemporary aesthetics.

Translations

Translations of the word "synthesis" in other languages:

🇵🇹 síntese

🇮🇳 संश्लेषण

🇩🇪 Synthese

🇮🇩 sintesis

🇺🇦 синтез

🇵🇱 synteza

🇯🇵 合成 (ごうせい)

🇫🇷 synthèse

🇪🇸 síntesis

🇹🇷 sentez

🇰🇷 합성 (hap-seong)

🇸🇦 توليف

🇨🇿 syntéza

🇸🇰 syntéza

🇨🇳 合成 (héchéng)

🇸🇮 sinteza

🇮🇸 samruni

🇰🇿 синтез

🇬🇪 სინთეზი

🇦🇿 sintez

🇲🇽 síntesis

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,354, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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3351 beat
3352 justify
3353 km
3354 synthesis
3355 advised
3356 simultaneously
3357 whilst
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