The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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precipitate

verb

/prɪˈsɪpɪteɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of precipitate

To cause something to happen suddenly or bringing about a change quickly.
"The controversial statement by the politician may precipitate a public outcry."

Detailed meaning of precipitate

Precipitate refers to an event or action that causes something to happen suddenly or unexpectedly. It can also refer to the act of causing something to happen suddenly or unexpectedly. In chemistry, it is the process of a substance forming and separating out of a solution as a solid. In a broader context, the term can be used to describe an event or action that causes a significant change or transformation, such as a political or social upheaval, or a sudden change in a person's circumstances.
It can also describe a hasty or impulsive action, such as precipitate decisions, where the person acts without thinking about the consequences.
The term implies a sudden or unexpected occurrence, and suggests that the event or action described as precipitate is not planned or controlled. It implies that the event or action has a significant impact or consequences.
It is important to note that the term can have positive or negative connotations, as some precipitate actions can lead to positive change, while others can lead to negative consequences.

Example sentences containing precipitate

1. The unexpected rainstorm will precipitate a change in our outdoor plans.
2. His reckless actions will precipitate a series of unfortunate events.
3. The economic downturn could precipitate a wave of layoffs.
4. I hope my decision doesn't precipitate any negative consequences.
5. The teacher's unfair treatment of students could precipitate a revolt.
6. The tragic accident will precipitate a thorough investigation.

History and etymology of precipitate

The verb 'precipitate' has its etymology rooted in Latin and English. It is derived from the Latin word 'praecipitare,' which combines 'prae,' meaning 'before' or 'ahead,' and 'capere,' meaning 'to seize' or 'to take.' In Latin, 'praecipitare' meant to throw or hurl something forward, often with a sense of speed. 'Precipitate' entered the English language in the late Middle Ages and is used to describe the act of causing something to happen suddenly or bringing about a change quickly. Its etymology underscores the idea of something being thrown or rushed forward, as implied by its Latin origins in 'praecipitare,' emphasizing the abrupt and often unforeseen nature of events or actions described as 'precipitate.'

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Further usage examples of precipitate

1. The company's bankruptcy could precipitate a financial crisis.
2. The discovery of a new virus could precipitate a global health emergency.
3. The sudden increase in crime rates may precipitate stricter law enforcement measures.
4. The scandal could precipitate the downfall of the prominent CEO.
5. The intense heatwave might precipitate wildfires in the region.
6. The loss of their star player could precipitate a decline in the team's performance.
7. The provocative article may precipitate a heated debate.
8. The abrupt resignation of the CEO could precipitate a period of uncertainty for the company.
9. The hostile encounter between the two nations may precipitate a military conflict.
10. The company's unethical practices could precipitate a public relations nightmare.
11. The unexpected announcement will precipitate significant changes in the organization.
12. The scientist's groundbreaking research may precipitate advancements in the field.
13. The stock market crash could precipitate a global economic recession.
14. His reckless behavior could precipitate a serious accident on the road.
15. Sudden market fluctuations can precipitate financial crises.
16. A heated argument can precipitate a rift between close friends.
17. The unexpected announcement may precipitate a wave of excitement.
18. A lack of communication can precipitate misunderstandings in relationships.
19. Environmental factors can precipitate health problems in vulnerable populations.
20. Rapid technological advancements often precipitate societal shifts.
21. Economic policies can either boost growth or precipitate a recession.
22. Political unrest can precipitate major changes in a nation's leadership.
23. Careful planning can prevent actions that may precipitate regret.
24. Impulsive decisions can precipitate consequences that are difficult to reverse.