Dissolving: meaning, definitions and examples

Dissolving is typically used when a solid substance breaks down and mixes uniformly with a liquid. This is a common term in chemistry and everyday situations involving substances like sugar or salt in water.

• Sugar is dissolving in the hot tea.
• The scientist watched the compound dissolving in the solution.

Melting refers to the process where a solid turns into a liquid due to heat. It is commonly used when talking about ice, metals, and other substances subject to temperature changes.

• The snow was melting quickly under the sun.
• She watched the chocolate melting in the saucepan.

Liquefying refers to turning a solid or gas into a liquid, often under pressure or heat. It is often used in scientific or industrial contexts.

• The engineer explained the process of liquefying natural gas for storage.
• Certain materials liquefy when heated to high temperatures.

Thawing involves warming something that has been frozen so it becomes soft or liquid. It often applies to food or natural conditions like frozen ground.

• The chicken is thawing on the kitchen counter.
• The ground began thawing after the long winter.

Used in a formal setting, often regarding legal entities like companies or marriages. It implies a formal and complete ending.

• The company is dissolving due to financial problems.
• They decided on dissolving their marriage through mutual consent.

A versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal settings. It is neutral and often used when something comes to a natural conclusion.

• The meeting will end at 3 PM.
• Their partnership had to end due to trust issues.

Used in formal or professional contexts, often regarding employment or contracts. It carries a stronger sense of finality and sometimes a negative connotation.

• The company decided to terminate the employee's contract.
• They needed to terminate the agreement due to a breach of terms.

Commonly used in informal settings, usually regarding relationships or groups. It often describes the end of a romantic relationship but can be used for any group disbanding.

• They decided to break up after three years together.
• The band is planning to break up after their next tour.