derives from

USAGE SUMMARY

"derives from" is a correct and usable term in written English.
It is typically used to explain the origin of something. For example: The name "McDonalds" derives from its original founders, the McDonald brothers.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

And derives from the Ordovician?

The New York Times - Books

This general theory derives from Eudoxus.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The precision derives from obsessive pattern recognition.

The New Yorker

The word mustang derives from the Spanish.

The Economist

Power derives from the ability to spend.

The Economist

The third derives from history.

The New York Times

7 derives from pachydermal slaughter?

The Guardian

8 derives from crustacean abundance?

The Guardian

Everything else derives from it.

The Guardian - Books

Indeed, my bafflement derives from my loo.

The Guardian - Opinion

The problem derives from medical materialism.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "derives from" to clearly and concisely indicate the origin, source, or etymology of something. Ensure the connection between the subject and its source is logical and evident to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect prepositions with "derives". The correct form is "derives from". Using "derives of" or "derives in" is grammatically incorrect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "derives from" serves as a prepositional phrase indicating origin, source, or etymology. As indicated by Ludwig, it is used to explain where something comes from. The provided examples showcase its ability to connect a subject with its foundational element.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "derives from" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that serves to indicate the origin, source, or etymology of a subject. According to Ludwig, its primary function is to explain the source of something, a point supported by the numerous examples provided. Its usage spans various domains, including news, science, and encyclopedias, suggesting a versatile application, yet it maintains a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure that the connection between the subject and its source is logical and clear. Alternative phrases like "originates in" or "stems from" can be used to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

originates in

Focuses on the place or time where something began.

stems from

Suggests a gradual development or consequence.

is rooted in

Emphasizes deep historical or foundational connections.

is sourced from

Highlights the provider or supplier of something.

is based on

Indicates a foundation or starting point.

is influenced by

Shows an effect or impact on something.

finds its origins in

A more formal way of saying something started in something else.

traces back to

Implies a historical investigation to find the source.

is a product of

Highlights the result or outcome of a process or cause.

is extracted from

Emphasizes the removal of something from a source.

FAQs

How to use "derives from" in a sentence?

Use "derives from" to indicate the origin or source of something. For example, "The word 'amateur' "derives from" the word for love".

What can I say instead of "derives from"?

You can use alternatives like "originates in", "stems from", or "is rooted in" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "derives from" or "derives of"?

"Derives from" is the correct form. "Derives of" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "derives from" and "is based on"?

"Derives from" specifically indicates the origin or source, while "is based on" suggests a foundation or underlying principle. The former emphasizes lineage, the latter emphasizes support.