synthesize
to combine parts into a whole
In more detail
1. (verb) to combine different parts or elements to make something new
2. (verb) to produce a substance by combining chemical elements or simpler compounds
Examples
- 1. The report synthesizes information from ten different studies.
- 2. Scientists can synthesize diamonds in the laboratory.
How to use synthesize
Synthesize means to bring together disparate elements into a unified whole, emphasizing both the combination process and the creation of something new. In academic and technical contexts, it often describes integrating research findings or knowledge; in chemistry, it refers to creating substances through chemical reactions. It is more formal than combine and implies a thoughtful, deliberate integration rather than mere mixing.
Common phrases
- synthesize evidence
- synthesize information
- synthesize findings
- synthesize data
- synthesize amino acids
- synthesize compounds
Synonyms
combine · integrate · blend · fuse · amalgamate
Opposites
separate · decompose · divide
Word family
synthesis · synthetic · synthesizer
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse synthesize with analyze; synthesis is combining parts into a whole, while analysis is breaking a whole into parts—they are opposite processes.
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