initiative
UK[ɪˈnɪʃətɪv]US[ɪˈnɪʃətɪv]
n
the ability to assess and initiate things independently.
n
the power or opportunity to act or take charge before others do.
n
an act or strategy intended to resolve a difficulty or improve a situation; a fresh approach to something.
Morpheme Breakdown
initi
ative
initi
beginning
ative
adjective suffix forming nouns
Etymology
the word 'initiative' traces its lineage to the latin verb 'inire', meaning 'to go into' or 'to begin', which itself is composed of 'in-' (into) and 'ire' (to go). from 'inire' came the noun 'initium', signifying a beginning or entrance. the english word 'initiative' was formed in the 18th century by combining the root 'initi-', derived from 'initium', with the suffix '-ative', which forms nouns denoting a principle or capacity for action. thus, the literal sense of 'a capacity for beginning' evolved into the modern abstract meanings of taking the first step, independent action, or a new plan.
Analysis
Structure: initi (beginning) + ative (adjective suffix forming nouns)
initi originates from latin 'initium' (a beginning, an entrance), from 'inire' (to go into, to begin). ative is a suffix of latin origin ('-ativus'), used to form adjectives and nouns indicating a tendency, function, or connection.
Examples
she showed great initiative by organizing the community clean-up herself.
the government has lost the initiative on economic policy.
a new diplomatic initiative aims to reduce tensions in the region.