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conduct

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˈkɑndəkt// con·duct Academic Archaic General-service

v. to organize and carry out a specific task or activity. You also use this word when a leader directs a group of musicians.

v. to manage, control, or direct a specific process or activity; in a musical context, to lead an orchestra or choir through physical gestures. Transitive — requires a direct object such as a study, an experiment, or a performance.


SIMPLE

The scientist will conduct a new experiment tomorrow.

CONTEXTUAL

The university decided to conduct a survey to understand how students feel about the new library hours.

COMPLEX

While the maestro was scheduled to conduct the symphony, a sudden illness forced the assistant director to step in and lead the complex performance on opening night.

Synonyms
Origin

From Late Latin conductus (“defense, escort”), from Latin conductus, perfect passive participle of condūcō (“bring together”); see also conduce. Doublet of conduit.

Usage

The verb is transitive and takes a direct object. When used in music, it typically takes the name of the ensemble or the musical piece as the object.

Pitfall

The conduct of the experiment was fast.The scientist conducted the experiment quickly.Learners often use the noun 'conduct' (behavior) when they mean the verb 'conduct' (to carry out).

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