The spelling of the word "initiative" can be tricky. It is pronounced [ɪˈnɪʃətɪv], with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable is spelled with "i" as in "bit," not "ee" as in "beet." The second syllable contains the "sh" sound spelled with "ti" instead of "ci" as in "motion." The word ends in "-tive" spelled with "t" instead of "s" as in "positive." Remembering this IPA phonetic transcription can help ensure you spell "initiative" correctly.
Initiative is a noun that refers to the ability to take action, being proactive, or taking the lead in a situation. It can also denote a specific action or plan that is designed to address a problem or achieve a goal.
Initiative can be seen as an individual's own drive and motivation to initiate or create something new or to make a change. It implies a readiness to act and take responsibility rather than waiting for others to do so. Having initiative means being self-motivated, resourceful, and willing to take risks.
In a more formal context, initiative can also refer to a project, program, or activity undertaken to address a need or issue within a community, organization, or society. It involves proposing and implementing a plan of action to tackle a problem or seize an opportunity. This type of initiative often requires strategic thinking, planning, and collaboration with others.
Initiative is an important quality in personal and professional settings as it demonstrates ambition, drive, and leadership abilities. It can lead to innovation, problem-solving, and positive change. Having initiative also reflects a proactive mindset that can contribute to personal growth, career advancement, and overall success.
• Introductory.
• Serving to introduce.
• The introductory step; power of commencing.
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 "initiative" traces its roots back to the Latin word "initiativus" which means "of a beginning" or "of an entrance". It is derived from the noun "initium", meaning "a beginning" or "an entrance", ultimately derived from the verb "inire", which means "to go into" or "to begin". From Latin, the word made its way into French as "initiative" in the 18th century, and then into English in the 19th century with the same spelling and meaning. In English, "initiative" refers to the ability or action of taking the first step or leading the way in a particular situation.