Transparency is a word with complex spelling. The initial syllable 'tran-' is pronounced with an unaspirated /t/ sound, followed by the vowel sound /æ/. The second syllable '-spar-' contains the tricky sequence /s-p-a-r/. The '-sp-' combination gives a hissing sound /s/ followed by an aspirated /p/ sound. The vowel sound /a/ is pronounced as in 'cat'. Finally, the '-ency' ending is spelled with '-en-' and pronounced as a weak /ɛ/ sound followed by the /s-i/ diphthong.
Transparency refers to the state or quality of being transparent, which implies clarity, openness, and easily understood information. It is a term widely used in various contexts but primarily associated with honesty, accountability, and the access to pertinent information.
In governance and public administration, transparency refers to the practice of sharing information with the public, ensuring that decisions and actions taken by authorities are visible, accountable, and free from corruption. It requires governments and organizations to disclose relevant documents, data, and processes to promote trust, facilitate public scrutiny, and discourage illegal activities.
In the business domain, transparency pertains to the openness and clarity in operations, financial reporting, and corporate decision-making processes. It involves the disclosure of accurate and complete information to shareholders, employees, and various stakeholders, creating an environment of trust and ethical practices.
Transparency can also be applied in the context of technology, particularly in relation to algorithms, data privacy, and user control. It emphasizes the need for companies and platforms to clearly communicate how data is collected, used, and protected, ensuring that users have control over their information and are aware of the potential consequences of their actions.
Overall, transparency is a fundamental principle that promotes accountability, trust, and integrity in various sectors. It aims to foster open dialogues, empower individuals, and prevent misconduct or unethical behavior by ensuring that relevant information is accessible, reliable, and understandable.
That property of bodies which permits light to pass through them so freely that the forms, hues, and distances of objects can be distinctly seen on the other side; a picture painted on a semi-transparent material. and which may be seen at night by a light placed behind it.
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 "transparency" originates from the Latin word "transparens", which is the present participle of the verb "transparere". The Latin term is a combination of "trans" meaning "through" and "parere" meaning "appear" or "be visible". Over time, the word entered the English language via the Middle French word "transparence", which had the same meaning. The concept of transparency was largely used in reference to physical objects, such as glass, that allow light to pass through and make objects behind them visible. Gradually, the term began to be used metaphorically, representing clarity, openness, and honesty in various contexts, including politics, business, and communication.