When it comes to the English language, understanding words that sound similar but have different meanings is important. Two such words are systematic and systemic.
This reference is here to help you learn the differences between systematic vs. systemic with clear explanations and examples.
Contents
The Difference between Systemic and Systematic
Key Takeaways
- “Systemic” refers to something fundamental within a system or affecting the entire system.
- “Systematic” describes a methodical, organized process or approach.
Systemic vs. Systematic: the Definition
What Does Systemic Mean?
Systemic refers to something that is deeply embedded within or widespread throughout a system, often relating to an entire entity or process. For example, a systemic issue within an organization could affect all levels from management to ground-level operations.
What Does Systematic Mean?
Systematic, on the other hand, describes a process or method that is carried out in a step-by-step or methodical manner. Actions are conducted using a particular system or organized plan, like a systematic approach to problem-solving which is orderly and usually follows a set pattern.
Systemic vs. Systematic: Usage and Examples
Examples of Systemic Use
- The new legislation aimed at introducing systemic reforms within the penal system.
- Researchers have discovered systemic issues that are contributing to the decline in bee populations.
On the other hand, systematic refers to a process that is carried out methodically according to a plan, method, or system. It often implies orderliness and routine. If we are undertaking a task that requires a step-by-step approach, calling it systematic underscores our organized and structured method.
Examples of Systematic Use
- The laboratory technician conducted a systematic analysis of the samples.
- To improve efficiency, the manager implemented a systematic approach to logging customer complaints.
Here’s a quick way to keep them straight:
| Systemic | Systematic |
|---|---|
| Refers to something affecting the entire system | Refers to something done according to a system or plan |
| Often used in discussions about broad, complex problems | Implies order, method, and planning in actions |
Remember, systemic is about the whole, and systematic is about the method. We’ll use these terms properly by considering whether we’re discussing something widespread within a system or something organized and planned.
Tips for Remembering the Difference
When trying to distinguish between “systemic” and “systematic,” we often get tangled up due to their similar spellings and sounds. Here’s a friendly guide that we hope will make it easier for all of us to remember.
| Word | Definition | Association Word | Usage Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Systemic | About or affecting the system as a whole. | Entire | The medication has a systemic effect on the body. |
| Systematic | Performed according to a plan or system; methodical. | Method | The scientist followed a systematic procedure. |
Related Confused Words
Systemic vs. Symbiotic
- Systemic refers to something that is spread throughout, affecting a system as a whole. This term is often used in contexts like “systemic change” or “systemic issues,” indicating that the effect is widespread within an established system.
- Symbiotic, on the other hand, describes a mutually beneficial relationship between two parties, often used in biological contexts. For example, the symbiotic relationship between bees and flowers is essential for pollination.
Systemic vs. Symptomatic
- Systemic implies a deep-rooted issue within a system, suggesting that the problem is integral to the system’s structure. In healthcare, a systemic disease affects multiple organs or the whole body.
- Symptomatic is about showing symptoms of a condition. This term is tied to the signs or manifestations of a disease or ailment, signifying the outward expression rather than the underlying system.
Systematic vs. Sporadic
- Systematic means methodical and carried out using a planned, ordered approach. It conveys the idea of a process being conducted in a step-by-step fashion, such as a systematic review of literature.
- Sporadic, conversely, describes occurrences that happen irregularly or without a discernible pattern. Events that occur sporadically, like sporadic rainfall, lack the orderly approach inherent in systematic actions.
Systematic vs. Schematic
- Systematic suggests a process that is done according to a specific system, method, or plan. For instance, when we conduct systematic observation, it involves a structured method to look at and record information.
- Schematic is an adjective that refers to a diagram, plan, or drawing that represents and simplifies the elements of a system. A schematic diagram helps to understand the components of a system and their relationships at a glance.
Systemic vs. Systematic: Examples
Example of Systemic
- Systemic issues in an organization can affect its overall performance and culture.
- The doctor explained that the disease was systemic, affecting multiple organs in the body.
- Systemic corruption can undermine the trust in a country’s political system.
- The financial crisis was caused by a systemic failure of the banking industry.
- Systemic inflammation can lead to a variety of chronic health conditions.
Example of Systematic
- The researcher conducted a systematic review of the literature to gather data on the topic.
- To tackle the complex project, they devised a systematic approach that broke the process into manageable steps.
- Systematic errors in the experiment skewed the results, leading to an inaccurate conclusion.
- The systematic organization of the files made it easy to locate the necessary documents.
- The teacher’s systematic method of instruction helped students understand the material thoroughly.
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