Collective

Definition

Collective refers to something that is done by a group of people working together or shared by all members of a group. It can also refer to a group of individuals acting together for a common purpose.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈlɛktɪv/
• Respelling: kuh-LEK-tiv

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈlɛktɪv/
• Respelling: kuh-LEK-tiv

Etymology

The word "collective" is derived from the Latin "collectivus," meaning "gathered together." It comes from the Latin verb "colligere" (to collect), composed of "com-" (together) and "legere" (to gather). The term entered English in the late 15th century.

Derivatives

• Collectively (adverb)
• Collectivism (noun)
• Collectivize (verb)
• Collectivization (noun)
• Collection (noun)

Synonyms

• Group
• Communal
• Shared

Antonyms

• Individual
• Personal
• None

Usage

The adjective "collective" is often used to describe actions, decisions, or efforts made by a group of people working together. For example, "The team made a collective decision to change the project direction." As a noun, it refers to a group of people who work together for a shared goal, such as "The artist joined a local collective to collaborate on projects."

Related Terms

• Collaboration: The action of working together with others toward a common goal.
• Cooperation: The process of working together for mutual benefit.
• Unity: The state of being united or joined as a whole.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Done by or involving all members of a group: Refers to actions, decisions, or efforts that are shared among the members of a group.
  • Example: "The collective efforts of the community helped rebuild the school."

Noun

• A group of individuals working together for a common goal: Refers to an organization or group formed by people united for a common purpose.
  • Example: "The workers formed a collective to negotiate better wages."