emergence
ih-MUR-jns
Emergence (noun) means the process of coming into view, existence, or prominence. Example: “The emergence of social media changed how news spreads.”
noun
1
The process of coming into view, existence, or prominence.
"The emergence of social media changed how news spreads."
"Scientists study the emergence of new species over time."
"The emergence of the sun over the hills made the whole valley glow."
How to use emergence
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe process of something new coming into existence or becoming noticeable.
Common pairings
the emergence of
sudden emergence
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Word forms
- Plural
- emergences
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The _____ of social media changed how news spreads.
Etymology
Borrowed from French émergence; a doublet of emergency, both ultimately from Latin emergere.
Related words
Rhymes for emergence
See all rhymes for emergence →Frequently asked questions
What does “emergence” mean?
The word “emergence” means the process of coming into view, existence, or prominence. In plain terms, the process of something new coming into existence or becoming noticeable.
How do you pronounce “emergence”?
“Emergence” is pronounced ih-MUR-jns (/ɪˈmɝ.d͡ʒ(ə)ns/ in IPA).
How do you use “emergence” in a sentence?
Here is “emergence” used in a sentence: “The emergence of social media changed how news spreads.”
What part of speech is “emergence”?
“Emergence” is a noun.
Where does the word “emergence” come from?
The word “emergence” comes from Latin. Borrowed from French émergence; a doublet of emergency, both ultimately from Latin emergere.
Is “emergence” a common word?
“Emergence” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "emergence" and "emergency"?
Despite looking similar, "emergence" and "emergency" are unrelated in meaning: "emergence" describes the process of coming into view or existence, while "emergency" describes an urgent, dangerous situation requiring immediate action. Confusing the two is a common spelling mistake.
How is "emergence" used differently from "appearance"?
"Emergence" specifically emphasizes a gradual process of coming into existence, view, or prominence, often from a hidden or developing state, such as "the emergence of a new trend." "Appearance" is more neutral and can describe something showing up suddenly, without implying any gradual process.
Is "emergence" used in scientific writing?
Yes, "emergence" is common in scientific and academic contexts, describing how complex patterns, species, or phenomena come into existence or prominence over time, such as "the emergence of antibiotic resistance." This technical use fits its core meaning of coming into being.
