The word "original": what does it mean and where is it used?

The word "original" itself is borrowed from Latin. Today it belongs to the category often used in Russian written and spoken language. In order to understand what “original” means, it is necessary to understand its origin in more detail.

Using the word "original" in Latin?

This word migrated to Russian and many other European languages ​​from Latin. When literally translated from this now dead language, originalis means "unique, inimitable, hitherto unseen, striking in its novelty and practical use." As a rule, the Romans and Greeks used this epithet in relation to inventions or achievements of scientific and technological progress. For all representatives of the ancient period, it was clear what the word "original" means. Merchants at ancient fairs could well use the term originalis in order to emphasize the uniqueness and special qualities of their product among buyers who first encountered it. As a rule, this tactic was a successful example of ancient marketing and allowed to successfully promote products.

What does "original" mean in Russian?

Old theater

At the end of the 18th century, the word moved from Latin to the lexicon of the Russian nobility. Initially, the catalyst for such a movement was numerous performances, which were usually held in Latin. They began to use the word consonant with the Russian ear based on its initial interpretation, practically without distortion. The meaning of the term “original” is unique, unusual, made independently, without imitation of someone’s creation, possessing new useful properties, attracting attention with the unusual nature of its image and origin. However, soon there were representatives of the nobility and the nobility who deliberately used this word for amusing purposes. Thus, the interpretation of the term “original” is widely known to characterize a person who is distinguished by a slightly eccentric behavior that breaks out from generally established norms.

Examples of using the word "original"

Original gift

"Original" is an adverb derived from the adjective "original." It possesses all the same meanings, only is a characteristic of one or another action. For example, we can say that the text was originally written. In this case, we mean the unusual approach to writing text, the freshness and unpredictability of the images and stylistic designs used. Initially, you can say hello to a person, if instead of the usual handshake use fists or clap your hands. If the gift was original, then most likely it was unusual, pleasant, amazing. You can pick up many more examples, but the general sense and these convey pretty well.


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