Conduct
/kənˈdʌkt/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo organize and carry out a particular activity or process.
/kənˈdʌkt/
To direct or manage an activity or process.
The teacher will conduct the class.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're in charge of a school project. To conduct the project means you're leading it, making sure everyone knows what to do, and keeping everything organized so it goes well!
👶 For kids: To do something, like have a meeting or do an experiment.
More Examples
We need to conduct a thorough investigation.
She conducted herself professionally during the interview.
How It's Used
"The CEO will conduct the meeting."
"Scientists conduct experiments to test their hypotheses."
To act as a medium for energy or a substance to flow.
/kənˈdʌkt/
To transmit a form of energy (e.g., heat or electricity).
Copper conducts heat very well.
💡 Simply: Imagine you are playing 'tag' and your friend tags you. To 'conduct' something means to allow it to pass through something else, like how a wire lets electricity pass through it.
👶 For kids: To let something go through, like electricity going through a wire.
More Examples
The wires are designed to conduct electricity safely.
This material does not conduct sound effectively.
How It's Used
"Copper is an excellent material to conduct electricity."
"The wires conduct the electrical current to the appliances."
A person's behavior; the way in which a person manages themselves or their affairs.
/ˈkɒndʌkt/
The manner in which a person behaves.
Her professional conduct was highly praised.
💡 Simply: Imagine your actions at school! To 'conduct' yourself is like your 'good behavior'.
👶 For kids: How you act.
More Examples
The company's code of conduct outlines expected behavior.
The police investigated the suspect's conduct.
How It's Used
"His inappropriate conduct led to his dismissal."
"The court reviewed the defendant's past conduct."
Idioms & expressions
code of conduct
A set of rules outlining the proper practices of a person, group, or profession.
"Every employee has to follow the company's code of conduct."
misconduct
Unacceptable or improper behavior, especially by someone in a position of authority or responsibility.
"The teacher was reprimanded for professional misconduct."
From Latin *condūcō* ('to lead together, assemble, guide'), from *com-* ('with, together') + *dūcō* ('to lead'). The meaning evolved to encompass leadership, guidance, and behavior.
The word 'conduct' has been used since the 15th century, evolving from its earlier meaning of 'to lead' to encompass behavior and the management of activities.
Memory tip
Think of a conductor leading an orchestra. They organize and guide the musicians.
Word Origin
"to lead"