sequence

Pronunciation: /ˈsiːkwəns/

noun

Difficulty: common

Definition of sequence

A specific arrangement or progression in which related events, actions, or items follow one another in a logical or structured order.

Origin of sequence

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: sequentia

Original meaning: a following, succession

How it evolved: Originally used to describe things that follow one another in time or order, the term expanded to encompass broader notions of logical arrangement.

Derived from Latin 'sequentia', meaning 'a following' or 'succession', the term evolved to denote ordered arrangements or progressions.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember sequence

Think of a film 'sequence'—scenes are arranged in a logical order, like puzzle pieces that form a coherent story.

Synonyms for sequence

  • progression
  • arrangement
  • chronology
  • continuity
  • succession
  • series
  • order
  • flow

Antonyms of sequence

  • disorder
  • chaos
  • randomness
  • irregularity

sequence in a Sentence

  1. The sequence of historical events leading to the revolution was meticulously analyzed by scholars to identify patterns of causation.
  2. In genetics, the precise sequence of nucleotides in DNA is crucial for the proper functioning of an organism.
  3. The director crafted a stunning cinematic sequence that seamlessly blended action, emotion, and visual artistry.

sequence in Literature & Culture

The idea of sequence is deeply rooted in storytelling, from literary works like the chronological structure of historical novels to the carefully crafted narrative progression in Shakespearean plays.

Usage Notes

‘Sequence’ often implies a deliberate or logical order; be cautious not to confuse it with 'series', which may lack the implication of intentional arrangement.

Why sequence Matters for GRE & SAT

Sequence is a versatile word often encountered in analytical writing and reading comprehension, making it crucial for understanding logical structure and progression in arguments or narratives.

Word Family

sequential (adjective)
Arranged in a logical order or sequence.
sequentially (adverb)
In a manner that follows a sequence.
sequent (adjective)
Following in order or succession.

Did You Know?

  • The word 'sequence' is widely used in mathematics, where it refers to a set of numbers arranged in a particular order.
  • In film editing, 'sequence' refers to a series of shots that make up a coherent scene or narrative segment.
  • The concept of sequence is central to programming, where instructions are executed in a specific order to achieve desired outcomes.
  • Sycophant — A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • sanctimonious — giving the impression that one is morally superior

More Vocabulary Words Starting with S

  • Sycophant — A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • sanctimonious — giving the impression that one is morally superior

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