WordGarden.ioneutralization
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /njˌuːtrəlaɪzˈeɪʃən/
US
- /ˌnutrələˈzeɪʃən/
Meanings
Noun
the chemical process of making an acid, base, or charge neutral
the disabling or destruction of a threat, target, or hostile force
the rendering of a virus, toxin, or other agent harmless, especially by antibodies
Beyond the definition
Neutralization happens when one thing cancels out the effect of another. Think of an acid and a base: when they react, the result is less acidic or less basic. It's not just for chemistry, though. You might soften criticism with praise or stop a threat by taking action against it.
The idea is about bringing things back into balance. If someone insults you, responding calmly can calm the situation before it gets worse. In politics, countries sometimes try to reduce a threat by forming alliances. It is all about using an opposite force or response to weaken something.
Neutralization is the process of making something ineffective, harmless, or more balanced by using an opposing force. It is most commonly known in chemistry, where an acid and a base react and move a solution closer to neutral. But the idea reaches far beyond the lab.
In chemistry, neutralization refers to the reaction that happens when acidic and basic substances are combined, often bringing the pH closer to neutral, around pH 7. For example, farmers may add lime to acidic soil to reduce its acidity and help plants grow better.
However, the concept also applies more broadly. In conflict resolution, neutralizing a tense situation means calming it down, perhaps through compromise or mediation. A skilled negotiator might weaken an opponent's aggressive tactics with calm reasoning.
Figuratively, people also talk about neutralizing negative feelings or harmful effects. If someone criticizes your work, responding with calm thanks for the feedback, even if you disagree, can reduce the sting of the criticism. In international relations, a country might try to weaken a possible enemy's influence by offering aid or forming an alliance.
So, whether it is about balancing pH in a solution, calming a tense argument, or countering a threat with diplomacy, neutralization is about reducing the force of something by meeting it with an effective opposite.
Examples
- 1
Chemistry
In chemistry class, we watched the neutralization of an acid with a base.
- 2
Hazardous waste
The factory has a special system for the neutralization of dangerous waste before it leaves the site.
- 3
Border area
The peace plan called for the neutralization of the border area.
- Domainneutralization of an area
making it free from military control or use
- 4
Cybersecurity
Officials praised the quick neutralization of the cyberattack.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Public criticism
The apology led to the neutralization of much of the criticism.
- Patternneutralization of + criticism/opposition
making it less powerful or effective
See also
Similar
- counteraction
- nullification
- cancellation
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- neutralization of a threat
- neutralization of an effect
- antibody neutralization
Word family
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Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- neutralizationnoun
Forms
- neutralizationspluralnoun