Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Corrosive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🦠
Add to dictionary

corrosive

[kəˈrəʊsɪv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

chemical reaction

Causing corrosion or erosion. Corrosive substances can cause damage to metal, skin, or other materials.

Synonyms

caustic, destructive, harmful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
corrosive

Use this word when referring to substances that can chemically erode or wear away materials, often metals. It can also describe something that gradually weakens or damages over time.

  • The acids were highly corrosive and needed to be handled with care
  • His corrosive comments gradually eroded their relationship
caustic

This term is often used to describe chemicals that can burn or corrode organic tissue by chemical action. It can also refer to sharp, biting, or sarcastic remarks.

  • The cleaning agent was caustic and required protective gloves
  • Her caustic wit often left others feeling hurt
destructive

Use this word to describe something that causes severe damage or destruction. It often implies a large scale or significant impact.

  • The hurricane was incredibly destructive, leaving thousands homeless
  • His destructive behavior led to the breakup of the team
harmful

This word is more general and can be used to describe anything that can cause damage or hurt people, animals, or the environment.

  • Smoking is harmful to your health
  • The harmful effects of pollution are evident in the city's air quality

Examples of usage

  • The corrosive acid ate through the metal pipes.
  • Avoid contact with corrosive chemicals to prevent injury.
Context #2 | Adjective

figurative

Causing harm or damage in a gradual and often unnoticed way. Corrosive remarks or behavior can erode relationships or trust.

Synonyms

damaging, detrimental, hurtful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
corrosive

This word is often used in scientific or technical settings to describe substances that can damage or destroy other materials through chemical reactions, especially metals and tissues.

  • The acid was highly corrosive and could burn through metal
  • His corrosive remarks left a lasting impact on her confidence
damaging

Use 'damaging' when talking about physical, emotional, reputational, or environmental harm that happens due to an event, action, or statement.

  • The storm caused damaging floods in the area
  • The article was damaging to the company's reputation
hurtful

'Hurtful' applies to actions or words that cause emotional pain or distress. It often has a personal or interpersonal dimension.

  • His hurtful comments made her cry
  • Being excluded from the group was a hurtful experience
detrimental

This word is preferred in formal or academic contexts to suggest that something has a long-term negative impact, especially on health, progress, or well-being.

  • Smoking has detrimental effects on your health
  • The policy changes were found to be detrimental to employee morale

Examples of usage

  • Her corrosive comments left a lasting impact on his self-esteem.
  • The corrosive nature of gossip can destroy friendships.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Chemical Properties

  • Corrosive substances can include strong acids and bases, which can wear away metals and other materials over time.
  • pH levels measure how acidic or basic a substance is; substances with a pH lower than 7 are typically considered corrosive.
  • Rusting is a form of corrosion where iron reacts with oxygen and water, leading to deterioration.

Safety and Hazards

  • Corrosive chemicals can cause severe injuries, so safety gear like gloves and goggles is essential when handling them.
  • Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) provide critical information on the safe use and handling of corrosive substances.
  • Emergency protocols often include flushing affected skin or eyes with water immediately if they come into contact with corrosive materials.

Environmental Impact

  • Corrosive waste can harm ecosystems if not disposed of correctly, potentially affecting soil and water quality.
  • Many natural processes, like acid rain, can involve corrosive elements that impact buildings and nature.
  • Corrosive pollution often leads to costly environmental clean-up efforts due to its damaging effects.

Industrial Uses

  • Industries use corrosive substances for cleaning metals before manufacturing, ensuring a strong bond in later processes.
  • Batteries often contain corrosive materials that produce energy through chemical reactions.
  • Corrosion-resistant materials are often developed in industries to counteract the effects of corrosive agents.

Historical Context

  • The study of corrosion dates back centuries, with ancient civilizations noting the effects of acids on metals.
  • World War II catalyzed significant advancements in protective coatings to prevent corrosion on military equipment.
  • The term 'corrosive' became widely used in scientific literature in the 19th century as chemistry evolved.

Origin of 'corrosive'

The word 'corrosive' originated from the Latin word 'corrosivus', which means 'gnawing', reflecting the idea of gradual destruction. It has been used in English since the early 17th century to describe substances that cause corrosion or erosion. Over time, the term's figurative usage expanded to describe behaviors or remarks that gradually wear away at something, leading to its current dual meaning.

See also: corrode, corroded, corroding, corrosion.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,930, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.