Systemic Meaning
Systemic Definition & Usage
Relating to or affecting an entire system, often in reference to large-scale processes or structures.
Examples
- "The company's systemic issues were deeply embedded in its corporate culture."
- "The government is addressing the systemic barriers to healthcare access."
- "Systemic change in the education sector will require a nationwide effort."
- "The systemic nature of climate change means it impacts ecosystems worldwide."
- "The collapse of the financial market revealed the systemic flaws in global banking."
Relating to or affecting the entire body or organism, as opposed to a localized condition.
Examples
- "He developed a systemic infection, affecting multiple organs."
- "Systemic diseases, such as diabetes, often lead to complications in various parts of the body."
- "The doctor is concerned about the systemic effects of the medication."
- "Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that impacts many organs."
- "The virus caused a systemic response, leading to widespread inflammation."
Cultural Context
The term 'systemic' comes from the Latin word 'systema', meaning a whole or an organized set of elements. It is widely used in both technical and general contexts to refer to something that influences or is integral to a larger system. In contemporary discussions about business, government, and social issues, the word is often used to describe issues or changes that cannot be isolated to one part but must be addressed on a broad scale.
A Web of Connections
Story
A Web of Connections
Max sat in the small conference room, surrounded by colleagues. They were discussing the deep-seated issues plaguing their company. The consultant had just finished outlining the problem: 'It's not just a few isolated incidents,' she said. 'The company's difficulties are systemic. These issues are embedded in the very structure of the organization.' Max felt the weight of the word. He had worked at the company for years, and although he knew there were problems, he hadn't realized how interconnected they were. Meanwhile, in the hospital, Dr. Adams was reviewing patient records. One particular case stood out: a woman in her mid-thirties, suffering from severe fatigue, joint pain, and fever. After several tests, the diagnosis was clear—systemic lupus erythematosus. The disease was attacking her organs, a wide-ranging condition that could be fatal if left untreated. Back at the office, the team brainstormed ideas to tackle the systemic problems. It wasn't going to be easy. They needed to rethink their entire approach. Max understood now: the solution couldn't just be a quick fix. It had to be comprehensive, touching every part of the company, just like the doctor's treatment plan for the woman with lupus. Every system in the organization needed to be addressed to truly bring about lasting change. As he walked home later that evening, Max reflected on the day. Whether in business, health, or society, he realized, systemic issues required a level of awareness and effort that went beyond individual actions. It was about understanding the broader connections that held everything together, and how a change in one part could ripple through and affect the whole. The next morning, he was ready to approach the problem differently—systemically, he thought, with a focus on long-term, interconnected solutions.
Related Words
