Exposure

Definition

Exposure often denotes the state of being exposed to contact with something, such as the weather elements, or it can refer to the act of revealing or bringing something into the public eye. It can also denote vulnerability or susceptibility.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈspoʊʒər/
• Respelling: ik-SPOH-zher (with "ik" as in "ink," "SPOH" as in "spoke," and "zher" as in "measure")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈspəʊʒə/
• Respelling: ik-SPOH-zhuh (with "ik" as in "ink," "SPOH" as in "spoke," and "zhuh" as in "measure")

In both dialects, "exposure" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "SPOH." The pronunciation is similar across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "ik-SPOH-zher" in American English and "ik-SPOH-zhuh" in British English.

Etymology

The word "exposure" originates from the Latin exponere, meaning "to put forth" or "to expose," which is derived from ex- meaning "out" and ponere meaning "to place." The term was adopted into Middle English from Old French exposer, with its current form emerging in the late 17th century.

Derivatives

• Expose (verb)
• Expository (adjective)
• Exposed (adjective)
• Exposer (noun)
• Exposition (noun)

Synonyms

• Revelation
• Disclosure
• Unveiling

Antonyms

• Concealment
• Hiding
• Protection

Usage

"Exposure" is commonly used in various contexts, such as photography, health, finance, and media, to describe the degree to which something is open to or affected by certain elements or influences. It can refer to both physical and abstract situations, like exposure to sunlight or exposure to public scrutiny.

Related Terms

• Outing: The act of revealing someone's true identity or secret.
• Vulnerability: The state of being open to harm or damage.
• Reveal: To make something known.

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Vulnerability to Elements or Risks: Refers to the condition of being unprotected and open to external influences, such as weather, disease, or criticism.
  • Example: Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to skin damage.

• Publicity or Attention: The act of being subject to public attention or media coverage.
  • Example: The artist gained exposure through social media.

• Revelation or Disclosure: The act of revealing something hidden or making something known to others.
  • Example: The exposure of the scandal led to widespread outrage.

• In Photography: The amount of light that reaches the film or sensor in a camera, affecting the brightness of the image.
  • Example: Adjusting the exposure settings on the camera improved the photo's clarity.

• Contact with Harmful Elements: The condition of being subjected to something harmful or risky, such as chemicals or financial loss.
  • Example: The company's exposure to currency fluctuations affected its profitability.