1
Originate in a source
Have a material, historical, or conceptual beginning.
Example
The pigment derives from a locally mined mineral.
derive from
/dɪˈraɪv frɒm/ · dih-RYVE fromorigin phrase
Come, originate, or be obtained from a source.
Use derive from to signal this exact relationship between ideas: come, originate, or be obtained from a source.
What derive from Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Be obtained from
Produce a result by processing evidence or material.
Example
The estimate is derived from satellite measurements.
3
Develop from an idea
Trace a concept or practice to an earlier source.
Example
The later ceremony may derive from an older seasonal rite.
Use derive from Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The pigment derives from a locally mined mineral.
The estimate is derived from satellite measurements.
The later ceremony may derive from an older seasonal rite.
Precision Matters
Derive from overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
derive from
vs.Signals come, originate, or be obtained from a source.
attributable to
Means capable of being explained as the result of a particular cause.
derive from
vs.Signals come, originate, or be obtained from a source.
contribute to
Means help cause, support, or advance an outcome without necessarily being its sole cause.
derive from
vs.Signals come, originate, or be obtained from a source.
bring about
Means cause an event, condition, or change to happen.
derive from
vs.Signals come, originate, or be obtained from a source.
build on
Means use an existing idea, result, or achievement as a basis for further development.
Test derive from in Context
The mineral is presented as the source of the colour.
1
The unusual blue colour of the glaze appears to ___ a mineral found only in the eastern hills.