The spelling of the word "retentiveness" can be confusing as it contains various clusters of consonants that are pronounced individually. The word is pronounced /rɪˈtɛntɪvnəs/, with stress on the second syllable. The cluster of consonants "nt" is pronounced as a single unit and the ending "-ness" is spelled with two consonants, even though only one /s/ sound is heard. Retentiveness refers to the ability to retain or remember information, which is an important skill in various areas, including academic and professional fields.
Retentiveness is a noun that refers to the quality or state of being retentive. It is used to describe the ability to retain or remember information, experiences, or skills over an extended period of time. A person who possesses retentiveness has a strong capacity to absorb, store, and recall knowledge or experiences.
The retentiveness of an individual is often associated with their memory capabilities and cognitive processes. It implies the ability to retain learned information and skills, even after a prolonged period of time or lack of practice. Someone with a high level of retentiveness can easily recall facts, events, or experiences from their past without much effort or prompt.
Retentiveness is an important trait in various contexts, including education, professional development, and everyday life. In educational settings, it plays a crucial role in academic performance as students with good retentiveness can recall and apply learned concepts effectively. It also aids in the retention of important skills, such as language acquisition or problem-solving abilities.
Overall, retentiveness encompasses the capacity to hold onto information, experiences, or skills, making it an essential quality for individuals seeking to excel in learning, work, and personal growth.
The quality of being retentive.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "retentiveness" comes from the adjective "retentive" combined with the suffix "-ness".
The adjective "retentive" is derived from the Latin word "retentivus", which is the past participle of the verb "retinere", meaning "to retain". In Latin, "re-" is a prefix indicating "again" or "back", while "tenere" means "to hold". Therefore, "retentivus" can be understood as "able to hold back or keep" or simply "retaining".
The suffix "-ness" is a productive suffix in English, which is added to adjectives to form abstract nouns.