negotiation
UK[nɪˌɡəʊʃiˈeɪʃn]US[nɪˌɡoʊʃiˈeɪʃn]
n
Formal discussion between people who are trying to reach an agreement.
n
The process of trying to reach an agreement through formal discussion.
Morpheme Breakdown
neg
oti
ation
neg
not
oti
leisure
ation
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'negotiation' originates from the Latin verb 'negotiari', meaning "to carry on business". This verb itself is a compound of 'neg-', a combining form of 'nec' (not), and 'otium' (leisure, ease). The literal sense was thus "to be not at leisure", implying the busyness and activity of commerce and trade. Over time, the meaning evolved from the general conduct of business to specifically denote the formal discussions and bargaining processes central to reaching business or political agreements. The modern abstract meaning retains the core idea of engaging in serious, purposeful activity to overcome differences and settle terms.
Analysis
Structure: neg (not) + oti (leisure) + ation (noun suffix)
- neg: Latin origin, meaning "not".
- oti: Latin origin, from "otium", meaning "leisure, ease".
- ation: Latin suffix "-atio", forming nouns of action or state.
Examples
The contract was finalized after lengthy negotiation.
She has strong skills in international trade negotiation.
The dispute was resolved through peaceful negotiation.