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Neutralization: meaning, definitions and examples

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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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "neutralization" in other languages:

🇵🇹 neutralização

🇮🇳 तटस्थीकरण

🇩🇪 Neutralisierung

🇮🇩 netralisasi

🇺🇦 нейтралізація

🇵🇱 neutralizacja

🇯🇵 中和 (ちゅうわ)

🇫🇷 neutralisation

🇪🇸 neutralización

🇹🇷 nötralizasyon

🇰🇷 중화 (중화)

🇸🇦 تحييد

🇨🇿 neutralizace

🇸🇰 neutralizácia

🇨🇳 中和 (zhōnghé)

🇸🇮 nevtralizacija

🇮🇸 hlutleysing

🇰🇿 бейтараптандыру

🇬🇪 ნეიტრალიზაცია

🇦🇿 neytrallaşdırma

🇲🇽 neutralización

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.