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synergy

SIN-er-jee /ˈsɪn.ə.dʒi/

nounC1GMATGRECAT

BusinessScientificProfessional

The interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations or agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate parts.

The key is that the combined output is greater than what could be achieved individually (the classic '1+1=3' effect).

The story behind the word. Synergy comes from the Greek synergia, which combines syn- (together) with ergon (work). For centuries, it was used almost exclusively in medicine and theology to describe drugs working together or the cooperation of human will with divine grace. It was only popularized as a corporate buzzword in the late 20th century.

Word relationships

cohesion: Cohesion refers to the sticking together of elements, whereas synergy refers to the active, productive power generated by those elements working together.

antagonism: Antagonism is an interaction where two forces actively work against each other, reducing the overall effect.

Commonly confused with

collaboration: Collaboration is the act of working together, while synergy is the actual energetic result or multiplier effect produced by that collaboration.

Word family

synergistic (adjective): Relating to the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations or agents.
synergistically (adverb): In a way that produces a combined effect greater than the sum of individual parts.

Collocations

create synergy
synergy between
corporate synergy
exploit synergies

Idioms & expressions

the whole is greater than the sum of its parts

Example sentences

"The projected synergy between the two companies failed to materialize due to deep cultural differences." A business analysis of a major corporate merger.

Memory hook

Think of 'syn-' (synchronize) and 'energy'. When you synchronize your energies, you create a massive, combined power: synergy! Synchronized energy multiplies results.

When not to use

Do not use for simple cooperation or teamwork where the output is just the standard sum of individual efforts.

Fun facts

In biology, the relationship between certain plants and nitrogen-fixing bacteria is a perfect example of natural synergy, where both species thrive far better together than alone.