Mission

Definition

Mission is a noun that refers to an important task or duty, often involving a specific goal or purpose. It can also mean a group of people sent on an official journey, particularly for diplomatic or religious purposes, or a religious settlement. As a verb, it refers to the act of sending someone on a task or duty.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɪʃ.ən/
• Respelling: MISH-uhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɪʃ.ən/
• Respelling: MISH-uhn

Etymology

The word "mission" originates from the Latin "missio," meaning "the act of sending," derived from "mittere," meaning "to send." It entered English in the late 16th century, initially in a religious context, referring to sending individuals for proselytizing or spreading a faith.

Derivatives

• Missionary (noun)
• Missional (adjective)
• Missionize (verb)
• Missioner (noun)
• Co-mission (noun)

Synonyms

• Task
• Assignment
• Expedition

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "mission" is frequently used in contexts such as business, religion, and military operations. For instance, "The company’s mission is to provide affordable healthcare" or "The soldiers were sent on a rescue mission."

Related Terms

• Objective: A specific goal or aim.
• Journey: The act of traveling, often related to a mission.
• Duty: A moral or legal obligation.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An important task or duty assigned to a person or group: Often involves a specific goal or objective.
  • Example: "Their primary mission is to improve literacy in rural areas."
• A group of people sent on a special assignment: Refers to diplomatic, scientific, or exploratory expeditions.
  • Example: "The space mission was a historic achievement."
• A religious or philanthropic settlement: Refers to communities established for proselytizing or charitable purposes.
  • Example: "The missionaries founded a mission in the remote region."

Verb

• To send someone on a task or duty: Refers to the act of dispatching individuals for a purpose.
  • Example: "They were missioned to deliver supplies to the affected areas."