Definition

Verb: 1. To cause or accelerate a chemical reaction by acting as a catalyst. This is the primary scientific meaning, where a substance (the catalyst) is added to increase the rate of a reaction without being consumed itself. 2. To cause an action or process to begin or to proceed more quickly. This is a figurative extension, meaning to trigger or stimulate an event, change, or development.

Usage and Examples

• The enzyme will catalyze the breakdown of the sugar molecule. (Scientific usage)
• The new policy aims to catalyze economic growth in the region. (Figurative usage)
• Her passionate speech catalyzed a wave of volunteerism in the community.
• A small investment can catalyze significant innovation within a startup.

Advanced Usage

• "To catalyze into action": To trigger a specific, often immediate, response.
  • The crisis finally catalyzed the government into action.
• The noun form "catalysis" refers to the process itself.
  • The catalysis of the reaction was very efficient.

Variants and Related Words

• Catalyst (n): The agent that causes catalysis. Can be a substance or a person/event that precipitates change.
  • Platinum is a catalyst in the production of fertilizers. She was the catalyst for the company's new direction.
• Catalytic (adj): Having the properties of or relating to a catalyst.
  • The process has a catalytic effect on the entire industry.

Synonyms

• Trigger: To cause something to start.
• Precipitate: To cause an event to happen suddenly or unexpectedly.
• Stimulate: To encourage something to develop or become more active.
• Accelerate: To increase the speed or rate of something.
• Prompt: To cause someone to take a course of action.

Notes on Meaning

The figurative meaning is now very common, especially in business, social, and technological contexts. It emphasizes the initiating or enabling role of an agent in a process, much like a chemical catalyst enables a reaction without being the primary reactant.

Verb

1. change by catalysis or cause to catalyze