The spelling of the word "consolidation" is a notable example of how English spelling can be deceiving. The word is pronounced /kənˌsɒlɪˈdeɪʃən/ (kən-SOL-i-DAY-shən), whereas the spelling might suggest "con-solidation" (/kɒnsəˈleɪʃən/), which would have a different meaning altogether. The spelling reflects the word's Latin origin, "consolidatus," which means "made firm." Despite the seemingly tricky spelling, mastering this word will help you clearly and precisely express the act of combining or merging things into a stronger, unified whole.
Consolidation is a noun that refers to the act or process of combining or merging multiple elements, entities, or resources into a single, unified whole. It involves bringing together various separate parts or components to create a stronger, more cohesive entity.
In a general sense, consolidation often implies the unification or integration of disparate elements or concepts into one cohesive entity. It can be used to describe the combining of different companies, organizations, or departments into a single unit, thus creating a larger and more powerful entity, often with the aim of improving efficiency, reducing redundancy, or gaining a competitive advantage.
Consolidation can also refer to the process of merging financial accounts, debts, or assets into a single account or entity. For example, when it comes to personal finance, individuals may opt for consolidation loans to combine multiple debts into a single loan, allowing for better budgeting and potentially attaining a lower interest rate.
Additionally, consolidation can be seen in the context of governments or political systems, where it involves the centralization of power or authority, often through the integration of smaller regional entities or jurisdictions into a larger governing body.
Overall, consolidation refers to the act of combining or merging various elements or entities into a unified whole, with the ultimate goal of enhancing efficiency, strength, or effectiveness.
Conversion into a firm dense mass; noting especially the change of the lung from a spongy to a solid condition by the filling of the alveoli with an exudate.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The act of making firm or solid; the act of uniting two or more parts or things into one.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "consolidation" originates from the Latin verb "consolidare", which is a combination of "con-" meaning "together" and "solidare" meaning "to make solid". It was first recorded in English during the mid-16th century and initially referred to the process of making something more solid or firm. Over time, the term expanded in meaning to encompass the idea of merging or uniting different things or elements into a single, stronger entity.