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Counteracting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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counteracting

[ˌkaʊn.tərˈæk.tɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

to counteract

Acting in opposition to; neutralizing or undoing the effect of.

Synonyms

compensate, counterbalance, neutralize, offset.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
counteracting

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
neutralize

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
offset

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
counterbalance

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
compensate

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

Examples of usage

  • Drinking plenty of water can help counteract the effects of dehydration.
  • Eating a healthy diet can counteract the negative impact of stress on your body.
Context #2 | Noun

counteracting

The action of counteracting something.

Synonyms

compensation, counterbalance, neutralization, offsetting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
counteracting

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.
neutralization

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.
offsetting

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.
compensation

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.

Examples of usage

  • The counteracting of climate change requires global cooperation.
  • The counteracting of misinformation is crucial in today's society.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In chemistry, counteracting often refers to neutralizing an acid with a base, creating a balanced solution.
  • In environmental science, efforts to counteract climate change include reducing carbon emissions.

Psychology

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy aims to counteract negative thought patterns by encouraging positive thinking strategies.
  • Counteracting stress can involve mindfulness practices which help return the mind to a peaceful state.

Health

  • Medications can counteract side effects; for example, antihistamines are used to counteract allergic reactions.
  • A balanced diet can counteract health issues caused by poor nutrition, promoting better overall well-being.

Politics

  • Legislative measures can be enacted to counteract the effects of economic downturns, like stimulus packages.
  • Social movements often aim to counteract misinformation by promoting fact-based education.

Origin of 'counteracting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'contra', meaning 'against', and 'act', meaning 'to do'.
  • It was first recorded in English during the early 19th century, showing the growing understanding of opposing forces in various fields.

The word 'counteract' originated in the early 17th century, derived from the Latin word 'contra' meaning 'against' and 'actum' meaning 'done'. It signifies the action of working against or neutralizing an effect. The concept of counteracting has been prevalent in various fields such as science, medicine, and social interactions as a means of balancing or negating unwanted consequences.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,097, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.