Definition
Synthesis is creation by combination: parts, brought together, becoming something none of them was. Chemists synthesize compounds from elements; plants synthesize sugar from light and air; a good thesis synthesizes a shelf of sources into one argument that belongs to its author. From the Greek syn- (together) + tithenai (to place). The opposite of analysis, which takes things apart to understand them — synthesis puts them together to make something new.
Examples
- Her book is a masterful synthesis of economics, psychology, and history.
- Photosynthesis is the synthesis of sugars from carbon dioxide and water.
- The final chapter offers a synthesis of the competing theories rather than picking a winner.
Synonyms
combination · fusion · integration · amalgamation · blend
In TOEFL & IELTS
The TOEFL integrated writing task literally is one — combining the lecture and the reading is an act of synthesis, and rubrics say so. Science passages rely on 'photosynthesis' and 'protein synthesis'; the verb 'synthesize' and plural 'syntheses' both appear. For IELTS, 'a synthesis of tradition and innovation' is an elegant essay move.