Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
Precipitate
verb / adjective
/ preh-SIP-ih-tayt (verb) / preh-SIP-ih-tut (adjective) /
Medium
Meaning
As a verb: to cause an event, especially a bad one, to happen suddenly and quickly. As an adjective: done suddenly or without careful consideration; hasty and rash
Origin / Etymology
Latin praecipitare (to throw headlong) — praeceps (headlong) — prae (before) + caput (head)
Synonyms
Trigger (verb)
Hasten
Accelerate
Rash (adj)
Impetuous
Antonyms
Prevent
Avert
Deliberate (adj)
Cautious
Example Sentence
"The sudden withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan precipitated a collapse of the Kabul government within days, destabilising the entire region."
🎯 UPSC Usage
Versatile word for Essay and all GS papers. As a verb, use to show cause-effect in complex events: 'The 2008 financial crisis was precipitated by unregulated mortgage lending.' As an adjective: 'precipitate policy reversals undermine investor confidence.' Avoid confusing with the chemistry term.
Relevant Subjects