Proximate Meaning
/ˈpɹɒk.sɪ.mət/Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
adjClose or closest; adjacent.
adjImmediately preceding or following in a chain of causation.
Sentence Examples
The proximate cause of the fire was a faulty electrical wire.
Scientists are looking for the proximate origin of the disease.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The ____ cause of the fire was a faulty electrical wire, not arson as previously suspected.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The ____ cause of the accident was driver fatigue, though poor road conditions also played a role.
Word Origin & History
From Late Latin proximatus, past participle of proximare (“to draw near, approach”), from Latin proximus (“nearest”), superlative of prope (“near”).
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"And writing a Theory of the Deluge here, as we do, we were to exhibit a Series of causes whereby it might be made intelligible, or to shew^([sic]) the proximate Natural Causes of it; […]"
— 1681, Thomas Burnet, “The Deluge and Dissolution of the Earth”, in The Theory of the Earth, 3rd edition, London: R. N[orton], translation of Telluris Theoria Sacra, published 1697, page 73:
"[…] the basis of a reformed constitution was laid, by the appointment of a grand council, consisting of all such citizens as could prove that their proximate ancestors had shared in the offices or honours of the state."
— 1857, John Scandrett Harford, The Life of Michael Angelo Buonarroti, 2nd edition, London: Longman & Roberts, published 1858, page 154:
"The proposed changes recognize that adequate off-street parking is an important, and often challenging, issue in many residential neighborhoods, and attempt to balance the need for off-street parking with appropriate limitations, especially in areas visible from the street or proximate to neighboring properties."
— 2019 March 11, Nick Kotsopoulos, quoting John Kelly, “Worcester plan aims to stop owners from paving front lawns”, in Worcester Telegram:
Explore More C1 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The ____ cause of the fire was a faulty electrical wire, not arson as previously suspected.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The ____ cause of the accident was driver fatigue, though poor road conditions also played a role.