Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

kuh-RESP-uhnd-uhns

Definitions

• The act of communicating by exchanging letters or messages.
• A relationship or connection between two or more things that are in agreement or match each other.
• Letters or messages that are exchanged between people or organizations.

Usage Examples

• The correspondence between the two scholars was ongoing for years.
• Her correspondence with the company led to a successful partnership.
• The correspondence between temperature and pressure is a key principle in thermodynamics.

Etymology

The word "correspondence" derives from the Latin word "correspondere," meaning "to answer together" or "to respond in kind," which is a combination of "com-" (together) and "respondere" (to respond). The term came into use in the 16th century, originally referring to the act of answering or replying to letters.

Synonyms

• Communication
• Letter
• Interaction
• Exchange
• Connection

Antonyms

• Silence
• Neglect
• Non-communication
• Seclusion

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: kuh-RESP-uhnd-uhns
• British English: kuh-RESP-uhnd-uhns
• Spanish: ko-rehs-pon-den-thia
• French: ko-reh-spon-dahns

Historical Usage

The word "correspondence" emerged in the 16th century, initially referring to the exchange of letters or messages. As communication methods evolved, the term extended to include all forms of interaction that convey messages or information, not just through letters, but through digital or verbal means as well. Historically, correspondence was an important social and political tool, especially in diplomacy and government.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, correspondence is seen as a formal and respectful method of communication. It is still practiced extensively in formal settings, such as in business, academia, and government. In some traditional contexts, maintaining a written correspondence, often by letter, was a symbol of one's relationship status or social position. In today's digital age, the meaning of correspondence is shifting to encompass emails, texts, and even social media interactions.

More Information

Correspondence remains an essential element of both personal and professional communication. In business, it can include contracts, agreements, and emails that ensure clear communication between parties. Academically, correspondence can refer to the exchange of scholarly ideas, research papers, or journals. In a broader sense, correspondence helps establish and maintain connections, whether between individuals, companies, or nations, and plays a key role in human interaction and information exchange.