cooperation
UK[kəʊˌɒpəˈreɪʃn]US[koʊˌɑːpəˈreɪʃn]
n
The process of working together with others towards a common goal or benefit.
n
Assistance or willingness to help.
Morpheme Breakdown
co
operat
ion
co
together
operat
work
ion
action/state
Etymology
The word 'cooperation' is built upon the Latin verb 'operari', meaning 'to work', which itself traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root op- meaning 'to work, produce in abundance'. The prefix 'co-', a variant of 'com-', was added to signify 'together'. Thus, the literal construction 'working together' directly and logically evolved into the modern abstract concept of collaborative effort for mutual benefit. The suffix '-ion' nominalizes the action, solidifying it as the name for the process or state itself.
Analysis
Structure: co (together) + operat (work) + ion (action/state)
- co: A prefix of Latin origin, from 'com-' meaning 'together, with'.
- operat: A root of Latin origin, from 'operat-', the past participle stem of 'operari' meaning 'to work'.
- ion: A suffix of Latin origin, forming nouns denoting an action, process, or state.
Examples
International cooperation is essential for tackling climate change.
The project was completed ahead of schedule thanks to the excellent cooperation between departments.
We appreciate your cooperation in turning off mobile phones during the performance.