Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌkɒlɪˈɡeɪʃən/

Definitions

1. The act or process of grouping or binding various elements together under a common concept or framework.
2. In logic, the categorization or classification of facts or phenomena under a unifying principle or theory.
3. In science, the combination of data points or ideas to form a cohesive understanding or explanation.

Usage Examples

• By using a common principle, the scientist was able to colligate the various data points into a unified theory.
• In her paper, she explored the colligation of different philosophical concepts into a new framework of thought.

Etymology

The word "colligation" originates from the Latin word "colligare," which means "to bind together." It is formed from the prefix "com-" (together) and the root "ligare" (to bind). The term was introduced in the 17th century to describe the process of grouping facts or concepts together in logic and philosophy.

Synonyms

• Unification
• Combination
• Association
• Grouping
• Integration

Antonyms

• Separation
• Dispersal
• Division
• Fragmentation

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

American English: /ˈkɑlɪˌɡeɪʃən/

British English: /ˌkɒlɪˈɡeɪʃən/

Historical Usage

The term "colligation" has been used since the 17th century to describe the process of grouping or categorizing facts, especially in philosophical and logical discussions. It was used to explain how different phenomena could be unified under a common theory or principle, marking a significant development in the way knowledge and data were approached during that time. In modern usage, the term is often found in scientific contexts, particularly in data analysis and theoretical research.

Cultural Nuances

While the term "colligation" remains central to logical and scientific discussions, its use is relatively rare outside academic circles. In some cultures, the idea of bringing together disparate elements into a unified whole is seen as a mark of intellectual sophistication. In contemporary society, "colligation" is mainly confined to specialized fields such as philosophy, science, and logic, where categorization and the organization of complex information are critical.

More Information

Colligation is an essential concept in various academic fields, especially in logic, philosophy, and data science. It allows researchers to draw connections between different concepts, helping to form comprehensive theories or models. By recognizing patterns and grouping related information together, colligation serves as a tool for making sense of complex ideas and phenomena. Understanding the process of colligation is crucial for organizing knowledge and advancing theories in fields that require detailed analysis and systematic thinking.