Precipitate
Word of the Day
What is Precipitate?
verb
To cause something to happen suddenly or sooner than expected.
Pronunciation
Why This Word?
Chosen to illustrate how rash actions can precipitate major events, reflecting on historical and modern decision-making.
Examples of Use
Here's how this word appears in everyday language:
The announcement might precipitate widespread protests.
Economic mismanagement helped precipitate the collapse of the regime.
Her careless remark precipitated a heated argument.
Word Origins
Latin praecipitare, from praeceps meaning "headlong"
Originally used for falling or rushing headfirst; now also used metaphorically for sudden causation.
First appearance in English: 16th century
Word Family
Related forms of this word:
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Noun:
The country’s reaction led to the precipitation of conflict.
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Adjective:
His precipitate actions endangered the mission.
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Adverb:
They precipitately left the meeting without discussion.
Around the World
How this word appears in other languages:
- Spanish: precipitar
- French: précipiter
- German: auslösen
- Italian: precipitare
- Portuguese: precipitar
If you Already Know This Word
If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:
Instigate
“Instigate” often implies intentional provocation, while “precipitate” focuses on sudden or premature causation.
Catalyze
“Catalyze” suggests speeding up a process, usually constructively, whereas “precipitate” can have negative implications.
Trigger
“Trigger” is more casual or immediate; “precipitate” often connotes larger or systemic consequences.
Fun Facts
- “Precipitate” is both a verb and a noun in chemistry, showing how words evolve across disciplines.
- Despite its serious tone, “precipitate” shares a root with “precipice,” connecting ideas of danger and steepness.
Cultural Usage
- The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand precipitated World War I.
- In chemistry, “precipitate” also refers to a solid that forms from a solution during a chemical reaction.
Common Mistakes
Often confused with "precipitous" (steep) or misused as meaning "fast" instead of sudden causation.
Micro Story
Her reckless statement could precipitate diplomatic tension.