C1noun3K

Emergence

UK /["/ɪˈmɜːdʒəns/"]/US /["/ɪˈmɜːrdʒəns/"]/

Definition

the fact of somebody/something moving out of or away from something and becoming possible to see

In simple words: The process of coming into view or becoming visible.

Examples

  • the island’s emergence from the sea 3 000 years ago
  • Albania's emergence from its long period of isolation
  • the emergence of new technologies

Usage notes

Commonly used in scientific contexts, such as biology or sociology. Less appropriate in casual conversation. When discussing new trends or ideas, it may be used more widely.

Grammar pattern

emergence + of + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'emerge' — imagine a flower emerging from the soil.

Collocations

  • emergence of new ideas
  • emergence of technology
  • the emergence of species

Synonyms

  • appearance
  • development
  • rise
  • unfolding
  • coming forth

Antonyms

  • disappearance
  • submersion

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'emergency' - these are different concepts.
  • Using in a sentence without specifying what is emerging.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'emergance'.