What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
derivation
Example
The word 'happiness' is a derivation of the word 'happy'. [derivation: noun]
Example
The derivation of the word 'computer' can be traced back to the Latin word 'computare'. [derivation: noun]
Example
The word 'unbelievable' is a derivation of the word 'believe'. [derivation: adjective]
etymology
Example
The etymology of the word 'telephone' can be traced back to the Greek words 'tele' and 'phone'. [etymology: noun]
Example
The etymology of the word 'nice' has evolved over time from meaning 'silly' to its current meaning of 'pleasant'. [etymology: noun]
Example
The etymology of the word 'decimate' originally meant to reduce by one-tenth, but now it means to destroy completely. [etymology: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Etymology is a more common term than derivation in everyday language, as it is often used in academic and literary contexts. However, derivation is more commonly used in technical or specialized fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between derivation and etymology?
Both derivation and etymology are formal terms, but etymology is more commonly associated with academic and literary contexts, making it slightly more formal than derivation.
