Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ɪɡˌzɛmplɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/

Definitions

• Noun: The action or process of illustrating or clarifying a concept or idea by providing specific examples.
• Noun: A specific example or case used to clarify or support a point, argument, or explanation.

Usage Examples

• "The teacher used an exemplification of a famous historical event to explain the concept of cause and effect."
• "The essay included several exemplifications of successful business strategies in different industries."
• "The lawyer provided an exemplification of the defendant's actions during the trial to strengthen their argument."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "exemplificatio," which comes from "exemplum" meaning "example," and the suffix "-ficatio," meaning "the making or causing of." The word first appeared in English in the late 16th century, referring to the act of providing examples to clarify a point or argument.

Synonyms

• Illustration
• Example
• Instance
• Case
• Clarification

Antonyms

• Obfuscation
• Confusion
• Misrepresentation

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English: /ɪɡˌzɛmplɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/
• In American English: /ɪɡˌzɛmplɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/
• In Australian English: /ɪɡˌzɛmplɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/

Historical Usage

The term "exemplification" has been used in English since the late 16th century. Initially, it referred to the act of providing specific examples to clarify or support a concept, and was primarily used in academic or formal contexts. It gained prominence in philosophical, rhetorical, and legal discourse, where examples were necessary to elaborate on abstract theories or arguments. Over time, "exemplification" became a common term in educational contexts, especially when teaching complex subjects or concepts.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, especially those with strong academic or legal traditions, the use of "exemplification" reflects the importance of clarity and precision in communication. In some societies, providing examples is seen as a means of reinforcing authority, be it in an academic, legal, or professional setting. In informal communication, the use of "exemplification" is less common, and simpler phrases like "for example" or "such as" are used. However, the phrase remains important in formal writing, where it helps clarify abstract concepts by anchoring them to concrete examples.

More Information

"Exemplification" serves as a vital tool in both written and spoken discourse. By providing concrete examples, speakers and writers make their points clearer and more persuasive. In academic writing, the use of exemplification is crucial in presenting complex arguments and supporting theories. Its role extends to legal and scientific contexts, where precise examples are needed to substantiate claims and reinforce credibility. While it may not be as commonly used in casual conversation, its formal usage remains important in various professional fields.