pervasive
What does "pervasive" mean?
The word "pervasive" describes something that spreads widely throughout a specific area or group of people. Imagine a drop of ink hitting a bowl of water; it doesn't stay in one spot but slowly curls and drifts until the entire liquid is tinted. It is often used to describe things that are felt everywhere, like an atmosphere or an influence. While it can be used neutrally, "pervasive" often carries a slightly negative or critical connotation, suggesting that something has become so widespread that it is difficult to ignore or escape. You will frequently hear it paired with nouns like "influence," "fear," "technology," or "corruption."
"pervasive" in conversation
Discussing social media
Do you ever feel like social media is just pervasive now?
Do you ever feel like social media is just pervasive now?
Honestly, yes. It’s hard to go anywhere without someone looking at their phone.
Honestly, yes. It’s hard to go anywhere without someone looking at their phone.
Used to describe the inescapable nature of technology.
Office environment
We need to address the pervasive sense of doubt in the team.
We need to address the pervasive sense of doubt in the team.
I think we just need clearer communication from the top.
I think we just need clearer communication from the top.
Used to describe an abstract feeling or mood affecting a group.
"pervasive" in a sentence
The smell of coffee was pervasive throughout the small cafe.
The smell of coffee was pervasive throughout the small cafe.
Pervasive corruption has hindered the country's economic development for decades.
Pervasive corruption has hindered the country's economic development for decades.
The pervasive influence of digital algorithms has fundamentally altered how we consume information.
The pervasive influence of digital algorithms has fundamentally altered how we consume information.
