Counteracting: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when describing actions taken to reduce or prevent the effects of something harmful or negative.

• The government implemented new policies aimed at counteracting the economic downturn
• The medication works by counteracting the bacteria causing the infection

Use when describing actions to render something ineffective or harmless, often used in scientific, military, or chemical contexts.

• The chemical treatment will neutralize the acidic content of the soil
• The security measures were put in place to neutralize any potential threats

Use when talking about balancing or counteracting something, especially in terms of costs, effects, or advantages.

• The extra cost of the ticket was offset by the convenience of the direct flight
• Higher energy costs have been offset by savings in other areas

Use when referring to something that has an equal but opposite effect, often in a mechanical or metaphorical sense.

• The weights were added to counterbalance the load
• The positive feedback served to counterbalance some of the negative reviews

Use when referring to providing something, particularly money, to make up for a loss, damage, or inconvenience.

• The company agreed to compensate the workers for the extra hours they had to work
• He was compensated for the injury he sustained at work

Use this word when talking about taking action to reduce or eliminate the impact of something harmful.

• The medication is counteracting the effect of the poison.
• She is counteracting the negative influence of social media.

This term is ideal for scientific or technical contexts where a substance is rendered ineffective or harmless.

• The chemist is working on the neutralization of the acid.
• Neutralization of the threat was achieved through diplomatic efforts.

The word is best used when talking about balancing one thing against another to reduce effects.

• The benefits of the new project are offsetting the costs.
• She planted trees to offset her carbon footprint.

This word is suitable when referring to giving something, usually money, as a recompense for a loss, injury, or inconvenience.

• The company offered him compensation for the accident at work.
• She received compensation for the delay in the flight.