Precipitating: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in formal or scientific contexts to describe an event or action that leads quickly to an outcome.

• The experiments aimed at precipitating changes in the chemical structure
• The financial crisis was precipitating a global recession

Commonly used to describe an event or action that initiates a reaction or process, often abruptly.

• The speech triggered widespread protests
• Certain smells can trigger memories from childhood

Used in general contexts to describe something that brings about an effect or result.

• Dietary habits can cause health issues
• Her negligence was the cause of the accident

Typically used to describe causing a strong reaction or emotion, often negative or intense.

• His comments provoked a heated debate
• The unfair decision provoked outrage among the students

This term is often used in chemistry to refer to a process where a solid is formed from a solution. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that triggers or causes an event or situation to happen suddenly.

• The reaction in the lab resulted in precipitating the solid crystals.
• His harsh words ended up precipitating an argument among the group.

This word is mostly used to describe the process of forming crystals from a solution or melt. It can also mean making a thought, plan, or idea clear and definite.

• After cooling down, the solution began to crystallize into sugar.
• Their plans for the future began to crystallize after months of discussion.

Solidify is used to describe the process of making something hard or solid. It can also mean making something more firm, strong, or definite.

• The molten metal will solidify as it cools down.
• Her commitment to the project helped to solidify the team’s goals.

Used to describe the process that causes something to happen, often suddenly or dramatically. It can also refer to the meteorological process where water vapor in the atmosphere becomes liquid or solid precipitation.

• The financial crisis was precipitated by risky lending practices
• Clouds are precipitating rain over the city

Specifically refers to the amount of rain that falls in a particular area over a period of time. Commonly used in casual conversation, weather forecasts, and environmental studies.

• The rainforest receives significant rainfall throughout the year
• We measured 2 inches of rainfall last night

A general term to describe any form of water - liquid or solid - falling from the sky, including rain, snow, sleet, or hail. It's often used in weather reports and scientific discussions.

• This region sees an average of 40 inches of precipitation per year
• Precipitation levels can influence agricultural output