quantum
Definitions
The smallest discrete amount of a physical quantity, such as energy, that can exist
量子（物理量能存在的最小离散单位）
A required or allotted amount of something
（一份）定量，额度
Relating to quantum physics; (informal) sudden and very large
量子的；（非正式）突然而巨大的
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedThe neuter Latin quantum, 'how much / a given amount,' from quantus. It long meant simply 'a portion' (a quantum of comfort). In 1900 physicists adopted it for the smallest fixed amount of energy, making it a modern science term.
Root quot still carries 6 more wordsWhy It Means This
Why does 'quantum leap' mean a huge advance when a quantum is the smallest unit? In physics an electron jumps between energy levels in fixed steps — a quantum jump. Because that jump is abrupt and discontinuous (not a smooth slide), everyday English latched onto the drama of 'a sudden jump' and forgot the 'tiny' part. So in common use a quantum leap is a big, dramatic breakthrough — the opposite of its literal physics size.
Common Collocations
- 1.quantum leap飞跃；重大突破
- 2.quantum mechanics量子力学
- 3.quantum computing量子计算
- 4.quantum physics量子物理
Example Sentences
- 1.
Light is emitted in tiny packets called quanta.
- 2.
The discovery marked a quantum leap in medicine.
- 3.
She studies quantum mechanics at university.