# be derived from sth

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/be-derived-from-sth
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to come from or be based on something else. You use this when one thing starts as a result of another thing's existence.

For teachers: to have a specified source or origin; used to indicate the provenance of a word, substance, or concept. Usually occurs in the passive voice.

## Examples

- Many English words are derived from Latin.
- The new medicine is derived from a rare plant found in the rainforest.
- The legal principles governing this case are derived from centuries of common law tradition and judicial precedent.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The word derives of Greek." but "The word is derived from Greek." — the phrase requires the preposition 'from' and is most naturally used in the passive 'be derived'.

## Usage notes

- almost always used in the passive form (be + derived) followed by the preposition 'from'.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'come from'; 'be derived from' implies a process of change or development from the source rather than just a physical origin.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.