Definition

Describing someone or something that acts quickly and without careful thought, often leading to hasty decisions or actions.

Example

His precipitate decision to quit his job surprised everyone.

Conversation

I think your decision was a bit too precipitate for my taste.

Really? I thought I was just being decisive.

I get that, but sometimes it's good to take a step back first.

You're right; I should probably think things through more next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To fall or come down suddenly, often referring to rain or other forms of precipitation.

Example

The weather forecast predicts that it will precipitate later this evening.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the storm warning for this weekend?

Yeah, they said it might precipitate a lot of rain.

I hope it doesn't mess up our plans for the picnic.

Definition

A solid substance that forms and separates from a liquid during a chemical reaction or process.

Example

The chemist observed the precipitate forming at the bottom of the test tube.

Conversation

Did you see the experiment we did in class today?

Yeah, it was pretty cool to see the precipitate form.

I didn't expect it to happen so quickly!

Definition

To cause something to happen suddenly or unexpectedly, or to cause a solid to separate from a liquid.

Example

The sudden change in temperature can precipitate a storm.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how the storm seemed to precipitate out of nowhere?

Yeah, it really caught me off guard!

I know, right? It felt like the weather just decided to change suddenly.

Root Explanation

**Precipitate** → It is formed from "prae-" (meaning before) and "capere" (meaning to seize or take). The word originally described something that is taken or brought forth before its time, often used in the context of a sudden or hasty action.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'taken' ('capere') 'before' ('prae-') its time — that's why precipitate means to act suddenly or hastily.

Visually Confused Words