Conduct

Definition

Conduct is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a person’s behavior or manner, especially in a formal or professional context. As a verb, it means to organize or carry out an activity, to lead or guide, or, in science, to allow heat or electricity to pass through a material.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑn.dʌkt/
• Noun Respelling: KON-duhkt
• Verb IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈdʌkt/
• Verb Respelling: kuhn-DUHKT

British English

• Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒn.dʌkt/
• Noun Respelling: KON-duhkt
• Verb IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈdʌkt/
• Verb Respelling: kuhn-DUHKT

Etymology

The word "conduct" originates from the Latin "conducere," meaning "to bring together" or "to lead." It passed into Old French as "conduire" and later Middle English as "conducte," retaining meanings related to guidance, organization, and behavior.

Derivatives

• Conductor (noun)
• Conductive (adjective)
• Conduction (noun)
• Conductance (noun)
• Misconduct (noun)

Synonyms

• Behavior
• Lead
• Direct

Antonyms

• Mismanagement
• Disorganization
• Neglect

Usage

The term "conduct" is used in various contexts, such as behavior, organizational management, and scientific properties. For example, "The manager's conduct was praised," or "Metals conduct electricity."

Related Terms

• Leadership: The ability to guide or direct others.
• Etiquette: Conventional standards of behavior.
• Transmission: The act of passing something, often related to heat or electricity.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The manner in which a person behaves, especially in a formal or professional setting: Refers to observed actions, often with moral or ethical implications.
  • Example: "The employee’s conduct was under review."

Verb

• To organize and carry out an activity: Used when leading or executing tasks, often in formal contexts.
  • Example: "The team conducted a thorough investigation."
• To lead or guide someone or something: Refers to directing individuals or activities.
  • Example: "She conducted the orchestra with grace."
• To allow heat or electricity to pass through: Describes the transmission of energy through a material.
  • Example: "Copper conducts electricity efficiently."