Prevalent
Adjective
Definition: Widely existing or occurring; widespread.
Synonyms: Common, Widespread, Prevailing, Dominant
Antonyms: Rare, Uncommon, Limited
Examples:
- The flu is prevalent during the winter months.
- Social media usage has become prevalent in today's society.
Mnemonics:
- Think of "prevalent" as "prevalence" or "prevailing" which implies something that is widespread or dominant.
- Remember the word "pre" which means before or ahead, so prevalent can be thought of as something that comes before or ahead of others, in terms of being widespread.
Etymology:
Origin:
The word "prevalent" comes from the Latin word "praevalens," which is the present participle of "praevalere" meaning "prevail."
Historical Usage:The word "prevalent" has been used in English since the 17th century and has maintained its meaning of being widely existing or occurring.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Prevalent in culture"
Explanation:Refers to something that is commonly seen or practiced in a particular society or group.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing "prevalent" with "prevalence"
Explanation:While "prevalence" refers to the extent or frequency of something, "prevalent" describes something that is widespread or dominant.