Everywhere in everyday life, the word "universal" is found. A variety of products, guides, specialists - all this is often defined by this term. What does the word universal mean? In the article, we consider the etymology and vocabulary of this concept. We give examples of the use of this adjective and synonyms.
Etymology of the word "universal"
The term studied is derived from the Latin universalis. In the Russian language, this word came during the time of Peter the Great from the Polish language. The influence of Poland and the West as a whole at that time is known.
It is no accident that this word appeared precisely in the 18th century. For Russia, this century was marked by a powerful impetus to the development of culture, science and art. This is the Golden Age in Russian history. The first university appeared in 1755. And this means the popularization of knowledge, the expansion of the boundaries of thought and reaching a new educational level when universality comes into fashion.
The lexical meaning
According to the dictionaries of S. I. Ozhegov, T. F. Efremova, D. N. Ushakova, the meaning of the term “universal” is divided into three options:
- That which combines everything.
- Related to many knowledge and skills.
- Something or someone who performs several actions (functions) at once.
This is a special vision of interconnected things and phenomena in the world. There is even such a worldview as universalism. Thinking of this philosophy embraces all the elements of the world and finds a subtle connection in everything.
Synonyms and examples of use
The studied concept has many synonyms. Here is some of them:
- general;
- versatile;
- multilateral;
- multifunctional;
- comprehensive;
- multipurpose;
- widespread;
- encyclopedic;
- global;
- ecumenical;
- universally significant.
Let us give examples of phrases from life, to illustrate the use of words in everyday speech, and to understand more clearly what “universal” means.
- "We have found a universal way to solve problems with washing clothes."
- "In our courses you will gain universal skills for successful communication with people."
- "This universal legal concept is the path to democracy."
A concept that is able to combine a lot in itself has become the subject of research in the article. Universal for us in the first place means that which is suitable for much; something that will suit many, if not all. Always this term implies a single linking thread with all the combined elements. What does universal mean? This is a beautiful definition, an adjective that can express something that can encompass everything.