The words demystify and demystify they are similar in spelling and at times may be similar in meaning. So, often, who brings the definition is the context.
The words demystify and demystify they were formed by the same process, the prefixal derivation, that is, they received prefixes. the prefix un- it is of Latin origin and means separation or an opposite action. So they both mean undoing something. See below for the meaning of each.
- demystify:
As this word was formed by prefixing, it is important to see the meaning of the word that was used for its formation. In that case, mystify, that is, make believe in lies, or something false, deceive, deceive. Therefore, when analyzing the meaning of the prefix used in the derivation process, it is possible to understand that demystifying is undoing a belief in lies, undoing the mystery, unmasking, denouncing or even clarifying a situation mysterious.
- Demystify:
The word demystify comes from the word myth, which can mean something fanciful, unreal, unbelievable, or it can represent an image of something or someone that, although accepted by society, is exaggerated. Therefore, demystifying is dispelling a myth, removing the legendary character. In colloquial language, it can also represent trivializing.
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Next, the use of the words demystification and demystification. See the example:
- The demystification of Che Guevara.
- The demystification of Che Guevara.
In the first example, for people who consider Che Guevara a mistake or a mystery, this image will be undone, as the idea is that it will be revealed the way it really is, that is, without masks. The second indicates that the myth will be undone, that is, the legendary figure will fall to the ground.
In example one, it is possible to understand that, for some, Che Guevara was a hoax, so the intention is to undo this idea. In two, for those who saw Che Guevara as a myth, there will be an attempt to change this concept.
The similarities between the words demystify and demystify go beyond spelling. Therefore, there are times when only the context defines the meaning.
In short:
Demystify → undo a mistake.
Demystify → dispel a myth.
By Mayra Pavan
Graduated in Letters
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
PAVAN, Mayra Gabriella de Rezende. "Demystify or demystify?"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/gramatica/desmitificar-ou-desmistificar.htm. Accessed on June 27, 2021.