Contemporaneous is spelled with the prefix "con-" meaning "together with" and the Latin word "temporāre" meaning "to make or do at the right time". The pronunciation of contemporaneous can be transcribed phonetically as /kənˌtɛmpəˈreɪniəs/. The stress is on the second syllable which is pronounced with a short "e" sound. The "a" in the third syllable is pronounced as a long "a". The last syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound. Contemporaneous means occurring at or around the same time.
Contemporaneous is an adjective that refers to something that occurs or exists during the same period of time. It describes events, actions, or objects that are happening or coexisting at the same moment or era.
The word "contemporaneous" emphasizes the simultaneous nature of events. It suggests a close association or parallelism between different things occurring within a particular timeframe. It implies that two or more phenomena share the same temporal boundary, allowing them to be witnessed or experienced simultaneously.
For example, in historical or legal contexts, "contemporaneous accounts" refer to records, documents, or testimonies created at the time an event or situation occurred. These accounts offer insights into the contemporaneous perspectives and understanding of people living during that period, providing valuable information for researchers or investigators.
In scientific research or academic studies, the term can also be used to highlight the importance of studies conducted within the same period to establish causal relationships or compare findings. It acknowledges the significance of contemporaneous data collection and analysis for accurate interpretations and generalizations.
Overall, "contemporaneous" reminds us of the concurrent nature of events or objects, urging us to examine them within their proper temporal context to gain a comprehensive understanding.
Living or being at the same time.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word contemporaneous is derived from the Latin word contemporaneus, which is a combination of com- meaning together and tempus meaning time. In essence, contemporaneous means existing or occurring at the same time.