Mass: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to the amount of matter in an object. Commonly used in scientific contexts such as physics or chemistry. It does not change regardless of location.

• The mass of the earth is about 5.972 × 10^24 kilograms.
• To calculate the force, you need to know the mass of the object.

Use when referring to the force exerted by gravity on an object’s mass. It can change depending on the object's location (e.g., on Earth vs. on the Moon). Commonly used in daily life and scientific contexts.

• The weight of the package is 5 kilograms.
• Your weight will be different on the Moon due to lower gravity.

Use when discussing how much mass is contained in a given volume. It is often used in scientific calculations and descriptions.

• The density of water is 1 gram per cubic centimeter.
• If the density of the material is low, it will float on water.

Use when referring to the amount of space an object or substance occupies. It is used in scientific as well as everyday contexts.

• The volume of this box is 2 cubic meters.
• Please pour this liquid until it reaches the 500 mL volume mark.

Used to describe a large amount or volume of something, especially in a scientific or general context.

• The mass of the earth is approximately 5.972 × 10^24 kg.
• A mass of people gathered in the square.

Refers to an amount or number of something that can be measured or counted. Often used in precise or technical contexts.

• This recipe requires a specific quantity of sugar.
• The factory produced a large quantity of goods last year.

Refers to the size, weight, or volume of something, often used in commerce or shipping. Implies a large, often cumbersome, amount.

• Bulk purchases can reduce costs significantly.
• The bulk of the cargo was unloaded at the port.

Typically used to describe the amount of something that is being carried, transported, or needs handling. Often implies an actionable process.

• The truck was carrying a heavy load of timber.
• She has a load of work to finish by tonight.

Most commonly used to describe a large group of people or objects coming together, often for a common purpose or in a large quantity.

• The protesters began to mass in the city square.
• Consumers massed outside the store for the Black Friday sale.

Typically used when referring to putting together various parts to form something, or when people come together for a specific purpose or meeting. Often more formal.

• The technicians assembled the new computer in under an hour.
• Students were asked to assemble in the gym for the assembly.

A versatile term used for people or things coming together, usually in an informal or casual setting. Can also imply collecting scattered items.

• Friends and family will gather for the annual reunion.
• She gathered all her books and left the library.

Often used to describe people coming together, usually in a social, religious, or communal setting. The tone can sometimes be more formal or specific.

• People began to congregate at the town hall for the community meeting.
• Birds congregate near the lake during migration season.