systematic
sihs-tih-MAT-ihk
Systematic (adj) means Carried out according to a fixed, organized plan or method. Example: “We took a systematic approach to sorting the boxes, one shelf at a time.”
adj
1
Carried out according to a fixed, organized plan or method.
"We took a systematic approach to sorting the boxes, one shelf at a time."
"The investigators took a systematic approach, checking every lead in order."
"She kept systematic records of every transaction."
2
Happening repeatedly as part of a consistent pattern, often used of widespread wrongdoing.
"The audit found systematic errors in how overtime had been recorded for years."
"Residents complained of systematic delays to the bus service on their street."
"The report documented systematic discrimination within the company."
How to use systematic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDone in an organized, methodical way, following a consistent plan or pattern.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
systematic approach
systematic review
systematic abuse
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more systematic
- Superlative
- most systematic
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We took a _____ approach to sorting the boxes, one shelf at a time.
Etymology
From Late Latin systematicus, from Greek sustematikos, related to "system."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for systematic
See all rhymes for systematic →Frequently asked questions
What does “systematic” mean?
The word “systematic” means carried out according to a fixed, organized plan or method. In plain terms, done in an organized, methodical way, following a consistent plan or pattern.
How do you pronounce “systematic”?
“Systematic” is pronounced sihs-tih-MAT-ihk (/ˌsɪs.təˈmæt.ɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “systematic” in a sentence?
Here is “systematic” used in a sentence: “The investigators took a systematic approach, checking every lead in order.”
What is the opposite of “systematic”?
The opposite of “systematic” — its antonyms — are asystematic, nonsystematic and unsystematic.
What part of speech is “systematic”?
“Systematic” is an adjective.
Where does the word “systematic” come from?
The word “systematic” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin systematicus, from Greek sustematikos, related to "system.".
Is “systematic” a common word?
“Systematic” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “systematic” have?
“Systematic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: carried out according to a fixed, organized plan or method.
What is the difference between "systematic" and "systemic"?
"Systematic" means done according to a fixed, organized plan or method, as in a systematic search. "Systemic" means affecting an entire system, such as a systemic disease or systemic risk; the two are often confused but are not interchangeable.
What is the difference between "systematic" and "methodical"?
Both describe careful, orderly work, but "systematic" emphasizes following an overall plan or system, while "methodical" stresses proceeding step by step in a deliberate way. A systematic approach implies structure, and a methodical one implies patience and thoroughness.
When is "systematic" used in a negative sense?
"Systematic" often describes wrongdoing that happens repeatedly as part of a consistent pattern, as in systematic abuse, discrimination, or fraud. In this use it stresses that the harm is organized and deliberate rather than accidental or isolated.
What words commonly follow "systematic"?
"Systematic" frequently pairs with approach, review, study, method, and search when describing organized work. In critical contexts it often precedes abuse, discrimination, or corruption to describe patterned wrongdoing.
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