Reaction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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reaction
[rɪˈækʃən ]
Definitions
chemical
A process in which substances act mutually on each other and are changed into different substances, or one where a substance changes into different substances.
Synonyms
chemical change, interaction, response.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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reaction |
Used to describe how someone feels or what they do because of something that has happened, typically in a social or emotional context.
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response |
Describes a reply or reaction, typically verbal or written, to something that has been said, asked, or done.
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interaction |
Refers to the process of two or more entities influencing or having an effect on each other, often used in contexts involving communication, relationships, or behavior.
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chemical change |
Describes a process in which substances change into different substances with different properties, commonly used in scientific and educational contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The reaction between sodium and water produces sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
- In a combustion reaction, oxygen reacts with a fuel to produce heat and light.
- The reaction of baking soda and vinegar produces carbon dioxide gas.
- The reaction of iron with oxygen forms rust.
emotional
A response to a situation, event, or stimulus.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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reaction |
Used to describe an immediate or spontaneous response to a stimulus, event, or situation. It often denotes a physical or emotional action.
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response |
Describes a reply or reaction to a specific question, request, or situation. It can be verbal or non-verbal and is often deliberate rather than spontaneous.
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feeling |
Used to describe an emotional state or an intuitive sense. It is often employed when discussing emotions or personal experiences.
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attitude |
Refers to a settled way of thinking or feeling about someone or something, typically reflected in a person's behavior. It often describes a general perspective or disposition.
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Examples of usage
- Her reaction to the news was one of shock and disbelief.
- He had a strong reaction to the medication, experiencing side effects.
biological
A response of an organism to a stimulus.
Synonyms
defense mechanism, response, response mechanism.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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reaction |
A spontaneous action or thought in response to a stimulus.
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response |
A deliberate or considered reply or action to a stimulus or situation.
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response mechanism |
The process or method that dictates how an organism or system reacts to a particular stimulus, often in a biological or technical context.
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defense mechanism |
A subconscious process used to protect oneself from anxiety or stress.
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Examples of usage
- The allergic reaction caused her to break out in hives.
- The fight or flight reaction is a natural response to danger.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In chemistry, a reaction can create new substances when elements or compounds interact.
- The famous 'chemical reaction' can be seen when baking soda and vinegar are mixed, creating bubbles of gas.
- Biological reactions in the human body are essential for processes like digestion and breathing.
Psychology
- Reactions can be emotional, such as feeling happy when you receive a compliment or sad when you hear bad news.
- The theory of 'classical conditioning' suggests that our reactions can be learned through paired experiences.
Pop Culture
- In movies, a character's unexpected reaction can lead to comedic or dramatic twists in the plot.
- Social media often captures 'reaction videos' where people show their responses to movies, trailers, or viral content.
Literature
- In storytelling, character reactions help to develop the plot and reveal personalities.
- Many renowned authors explore the theme of human reactions to events, inviting readers to understand diverse perspectives.
Origin of 'reaction'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'reactio', meaning 'a doing again', emphasizing the response aspect.
- English adopted it in the early 1600s, primarily linking it with physical changes and forces.
The word 'reaction' originated from the Latin word 'reactio', which means 'action in return'. The concept of reaction has been fundamental in various fields such as chemistry, physics, biology, and psychology. The understanding of reactions has led to advancements in scientific research and technology, as well as in our understanding of human behavior and responses to stimuli.
See also: nonreactive, reactance, reactant, reactions, reactive, reactively, reactivity, unreactive, unreactiveness.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #1,143, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.
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