production
pruh-DUK-shun
/prəˈdʌkʃən/
The action of making or manufacturing from components or raw materials, or the process of being so manufactured.
A broad term that covers everything from manufacturing physical goods to creating a theatrical play.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'pro-' (forward) and 'ducere' (to lead). To produce something is literally to 'lead it forward' from the realm of ideas or raw materials into the light of the finished world.
Word relationships
- creation: Creation implies bringing something new into existence, often with an artistic flair.
- generation: Generation is often used for power (electricity) or ideas rather than physical goods.
- consumption: The act of using up a resource, the opposite of making it.
Commonly confused with
- productivity: Production is the total amount made; productivity is the efficiency with which it is made.
Word family
- produce (verb): To make or create something.
- productive (adjective): Producing or able to produce large amounts of goods.
Collocations
- mass production
- production line
- cost of production
- increase production
Example sentences
- "Production is not the application of tools to materials, but the application of logic to work." Peter Drucker on economic efficiency.
Memory hook
Pro (forward) + Duct (lead). You lead the product forward out of the factory. Production leads products forward.
When not to use
Avoid using when referring specifically to the 'delivery' of a service; 'provision' is often better.
Fun facts
- The word 'produce' is a heteronym: as a noun (PRO-duce), it refers to agricultural products like fruits and vegetables.
Related words
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