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Neutralization Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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neutralization

[ˌnjuː.trə.laɪˈzeɪ.ʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

linguistics

The process of making something neutral or less extreme, especially by balancing or combining it with something else.

Synonyms

balancing, compensation, moderation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
neutralization

Mentioned twice, it holds the same meaning as described before, with use mainly in scientific or technical contexts.

  • The process of neutralization can make toxic substances harmless.
  • In the medical field, neutralization of viruses is a key goal in creating vaccines.
balancing

Often used when talking about achieving stability or equality between different elements, such as balancing work and life, or balancing an equation in mathematics.

  • Balancing work and family life can be challenging.
  • He is good at balancing the budget every month.
moderation

Typically used to suggest keeping things within reasonable or average limits, often associated with behavior, consumption, or habits.

  • All things should be done in moderation to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
  • He preached moderation in drinking as a way to avoid health issues.
compensation

Commonly used in financial or work-related contexts to indicate the act of providing something, often money, to offset a loss or as a reward.

  • She received compensation for the injury she sustained at work.
  • The company offers financial compensation for overtime.

Examples of usage

  • The neutralization of acidic and basic solutions results in a neutral solution.
  • Political neutralization is essential in maintaining peace among nations.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In chemistry, neutralization refers to a chemical reaction where an acid and a base react to form water and a salt, effectively canceling each other's properties.
  • The reaction between hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) creates water and sodium chloride (common table salt).

Psychology

  • In psychology, neutralization can refer to the way people neutralize their feelings about guilt or shame by rationalizing their behaviors.
  • This coping mechanism helps individuals manage uncomfortable emotions by downplaying their significance.

Politics

  • In politics, the term can describe strategies used to reduce tensions between opposing groups, aiming for peace and stability.
  • Neutralization might involve compromise or dialogue, helping to foster cooperation among differing parties.

Sports

  • In sports, neutralization can refer to strategies that balance play, such as when two teams with strong players use defensive tactics to level the competition.
  • Referees also play a role in neutralizing fouls to ensure fairness during a game.

Origin of 'neutralization'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'neutralis,' meaning ‘neither one nor the other’ and 'neutralis' from 'neutrum,' which means 'neither' or 'not one of the two.'
  • It first appeared in the English language in the 19th century, linking to both chemistry and military contexts.

The word 'neutralization' originated from the Latin word 'neutralis', which means 'neuter' or 'neither one thing nor the other'. The term started to be used in English in the mid-19th century, primarily in the fields of chemistry and linguistics. The concept of neutralization has since been widely adopted in various disciplines to describe the process of making something neutral or less extreme.

See also: neutrality, neutralize, neutrally.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,718, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.