neutralize
UK/'nju:trәlaiz/US
IELTSTOEFLGREB1
Definitions
v.
To make ineffective or counteract by an opposing force or action
抵消，使无效
v.
To make a substance chemically neutral, neither acid nor alkaline
使中和（化学）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedneutral + -ize (to make) = 'to make neither extreme,' i.e. to cancel out. Whether it's an acid balanced by a base, or a threat stripped of its power to act, neutralize means pulling something back to a harmless middle where it no longer has effect.
Root neutr still carries 3 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.neutralize the threat消除威胁
- 2.neutralize the acid中和酸性
- 3.neutralize the effect抵消影响
Example Sentences
- 1.
Special forces moved in to neutralize the threat quickly.
- 2.
Baking soda can neutralize the acid in your stomach.
- 3.
Their counterattack neutralized any advantage we had gained.