ELECTIVE Meaning and
Definition
-
The term "elective" is commonly used to describe something that is chosen or selected, rather than being automatic or obligatory. It refers to an option or choice that is available to individuals or groups and is not mandatory or required. In the context of education, an "elective" refers to a course or subject that students have the freedom to select from a range of options, allowing them to tailor their studies to their specific interests or career goals. These elective courses usually provide a broader and more diverse set of subjects beyond the core curriculum.
In a medical context, an "elective" procedure or surgery is one that is scheduled in advance by the patient, rather than being an emergency or necessary intervention. Elective surgeries are typically non-urgent and aim to improve the patient's quality of life, but are not considered immediately life-saving. Such procedures might include cosmetic surgeries, joint replacements, or some diagnostic tests.
The notion of electives also extends to various other fields, such as politics, where an "elective office" refers to a position that is chosen by voters through an election rather than being appointed or inherited. Additionally, "elective" can pertain to personal choices made in everyday life, like selecting elective vegetarianism or elective celibacy, where individuals voluntarily choose alternative lifestyles due to personal beliefs or preferences. Overall, "elective" embodies the concept of choice and the freedom to select among different options or alternatives, distinct from obligatory or automatic actions.
-
Depending on choice; regulated by choice; exerting the power of choice.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for ELECTIVE *
* 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.
Other Common Misspellings for ELECTIVE
Etymology of ELECTIVE
The word "elective" originates from the Latin term "electivus", which is derived from the verb "eligere". "Eligere" combines the prefix "e" (meaning "out") with "legere" (meaning "to choose" or "to gather"). The term "electivus" referred to something that is chosen or selected. Over time, in English, "elective" came to be used specifically in relation to courses or subjects that are chosen by the student rather than being mandatory.
Similar spelling words for ELECTIVE
- selective,
- elucidative,
- elected,
- electorate,
- electron,
- elector,
- electrum,
- elasticised,
- El Cid,
- elastin,
- elucidate,
- electrode,
- elastic,
- election,
- effective,
- elicit,
- elasticized,
- electric,
- electra,
- elocute,
- electioneer,
- elicited,
- elect.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
