catalyst

/'kætəlist/

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Word: Catalyst

Part of Speech: Noun

Basic Definition:

A "catalyst" is something or someone that causes an important change or event to happen. In chemistry, it refers to a substance that makes a chemical reaction happen faster without changing itself.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "catalyst" to describe a person, event, or thing that leads to a significant change or action. It is often used in discussions about social changes, movements, or scientific processes.

Examples:

1. General Use: "The new law was a catalyst for social reform, encouraging citizens to speak out."
2. Chemistry Use: "In the experiment, the enzyme acted as a catalyst, speeding up the reaction without being consumed."

Advanced Usage:

In advanced contexts, "catalyst" can refer to ideas, movements, or events that instigate change in various fields, such as politics, business, or social issues.

Word Variants:

• Catalytic (adjective): Describing something that causes change or a reaction. For example, "The catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions from the car."
• Catalysis (noun): The process by which a catalyst causes a chemical reaction to occur.

Different Meanings:

While "catalyst" primarily refers to the two definitions mentioned above, it can also metaphorically represent a person who inspires or motivates others to take action.

Synonyms:

• Accelerator: Something that speeds up a process or event.
• Stimulus: Something that encourages activity or growth.
• Impeller: Something that drives or pushes forward.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "catalyst," it can be part of phrases like: - "Be the catalyst for change": To be the person or thing that starts a significant change.

Summary:

In summary, a "catalyst" is an important word that describes something that triggers change, whether in society or in scientific reactions.

Academic

Noun

1. something that causes an important event to happen
   • the invasion acted as a catalyst to unite the country
2. (chemistry) a substance that initiates or accelerates a chemical reaction without itself being affected

Synonyms

• accelerator