1. In Mathematics:
* Derivation of a formula: This refers to the process of logically explaining how a formula is obtained. It involves breaking down a complex mathematical relationship into simpler steps and using known mathematical principles to arrive at the final formula.
* Derivative of a function: In calculus, the derivative of a function measures its instantaneous rate of change at a particular point. It's a fundamental concept in calculus and has numerous applications in physics, engineering, and other fields.
2. In Linguistics:
* Derivation of words: This refers to the process of forming new words from existing words by adding prefixes, suffixes, or changing the form of the word (e.g., "un-happy", "happy-ness", "run" to "ran").
3. In General:
* Derivation of something: In a broader sense, derivation simply means the process of obtaining something from something else. For example, you could say "the derivation of the theory" meaning the process of developing that theory.
To understand what "derivation" means in a specific context, you need to look at the surrounding information.
For example:
* "The derivation of the quadratic formula is complex but interesting." (This refers to the mathematical process of obtaining the formula.)
* "The derivation of the word 'unfortunate' is straightforward - 'un' is a prefix added to 'fortunate'." (This refers to word formation.)
Let me know if you have a specific context in mind, and I can explain the meaning of "derivation" in that context more clearly.