adj
systemic
sih-STEHM-ihk
adj
1
Affecting or built into an entire system, organization, or body rather than just one part of it.
"The report described the problem as systemic rather than the fault of a few individuals."
"A systemic infection spreads through the whole body, not just one area."
How to Use Systemic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBuilt into and spread throughout the whole system, not limited to an isolated part.
Common mistake
"Systemic" describes something embedded throughout a system (like systemic racism or a systemic illness); "systematic" describes a methodical, planned way of doing something. They look similar but mean different things.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
systemic issue
systemic risk
systemic infection
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The report described the problem as _____ rather than the fault of a few individuals.
Etymology
From "system" plus the adjective-forming suffix "-ic."