A prefix meaning 'resembling', 'seemingly', or 'analogous to', but not actually being so. It indicates a partial or near likeness, often implying an imitation or a hypothetical state that falls short of the real thing. It's used to describe something that appears to be of a certain nature or kind but differs in some important respects, or that has some, but not all, of the characteristics of something else. Often used in academic, scientific, and legal contexts, it provides a way to categorize things that don't perfectly fit existing classifications, bridging the gap between distinct concepts.
Quasi meaning with examples
- The art exhibit featured several quasi-abstract paintings. While they employed abstract techniques, the artists still incorporated recognizable imagery, creating a blend of both worlds. The paintings didn't completely abandon traditional representation, but they didn't fully embrace pure abstraction either, landing them in a conceptual middle ground for the viewer.
- The government implemented quasi-judicial proceedings to address the complaints. Though modeled on legal processes, these proceedings, by their very nature, had a different scope of authority. They lacked some of the formalities of a full court, but still provided an organized and fair method of finding the truth about the incident, and an acceptable form of resolution.
- The team developed a quasi-experimental design for their research project. They couldn't control all the variables as in a true experiment, so they utilized a setting that was not ideal for a perfect scientific study. They observed in a real-world setting to study the effect of the new treatment. The study gave helpful insights, even if it was not possible to make definitive conclusions.
- After the budget cuts, the university entered a quasi-state of financial emergency. While it was not facing bankruptcy, the cuts had a large impact, and the reduced income of the university caused a suspension of operations. The university still tried to offer the same education to the public, but changes had to be made, or it might have become something else.