Words / C1

di-RIV-uh-tiv/dɪˈrɪvətɪv/

Derivative as an adjective means copied or developed from something else, not original: a derivative plot, derivative research. Unoriginal is the blunt twin; original sits opposite. As a noun in finance it is a contract based on an asset — a different lesson. Restating last year’s n is not a new paper.

Meaning

Copied or developed from something else rather than original.

Examples

• “A derivative abstract that restates last year’s n is not a new paper.”
• “Unoriginal is everyday and ruder. Secondary can mean sourced on purpose with a citation. A sequel can still have a new count. Last year’s figure is a source or a repeat. Cite it, or collect a new n; do not relabel the reprint.”

Good to know

Unoriginal; taken from something prior. Everyday: unoriginal. Finance noun is a separate sense. Last year’s n ≠ a new finding.

Near in meaning

unoriginal

New