The word "revolutionise" is spelt with the letters R-E-V-O-L-U-T-I-O-N-I-S-E in British English, and R-E-V-O-L-U-T-I-O-N-I-Z-E in American English. The pronunciation of this word is /ˌrɛvəˈluːʃənaɪz/ or "rev-uh-loo-shuh-nahyz". The 's' in 'ise' is pronounced as a soft 'z' sound, while the 'z' in 'ize' is pronounced as a 'z' sound. This word means to completely change something, often in a radical way, and is commonly used in discussions about technology or societal structures.
Revolutionise is a verb that refers to the act or process of completely transforming or drastically changing something, often by introducing innovative ideas, technologies, or systems. The term implies a significant shift that disrupts the previous state or conventional practices, leading to a new and improved way of doing things.
When an innovation revolutionises something, it brings about a profound impact, revolutionising the status quo. This can occur in various areas such as technology, science, industry, education, or society as a whole. Revolutionising may involve replacing traditional methods with groundbreaking alternatives, challenging existing norms and paradigms, or introducing unprecedented advancements.
One hallmark of a revolutionising concept or invention is that it has the power to disrupt established industries or practices, necessitating large-scale changes to adapt. It goes beyond mere improvement or incrementally building upon existing frameworks; instead, it redefines the entire landscape, compelling others to follow suit or be left behind.
For example, the introduction of personal computers revolutionised the way individuals work and communicate, rendering typewriters and snail mail almost obsolete. Similarly, the advent of the internet revolutionised the way information is accessed and shared, transforming various sectors like communication, commerce, and education.
Overall, to revolutionise is to bring about a fundamental, paradigm-shifting change that revolutionises the way something is done or perceived, ushering in a new era marked by innovation, efficiency, and progress.
To effect an extensive or-entire change in the form or principles of a thing.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "revolutionise" is derived from the noun "revolution", which comes from the Latin "revolutio" (meaning "a revolving"). The noun "revolution" is first recorded in the English language in the mid-15th century and initially referred to the motion of celestial bodies. Over time, it gained a metaphorical sense of describing a drastic and fundamental change or a complete rotation of societal or political systems.
The verb form "revolutionise" emerged in the early 19th century through the addition of the suffix "-ise" to the noun "revolution". The suffix "-ise" (also spelled "-ize" in American English) is derived from the Greek "-izein", which has the same meaning.
Therefore, "revolutionise" essentially means to bring about a significant and transformative change, as if causing a revolution.