catalyst Definition
- 1a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself undergoing any permanent chemical change
- 2a person or thing that causes a change
Using catalyst: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "catalyst" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Enzymes are catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in the body.
Example
The new highway will be a catalyst for economic growth in the region.
Example
The discovery of oil was a catalyst for the country's rapid development.
catalyst Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using catalyst
Example
The new technology is expected to be a catalyst for innovation in the industry.
to introduce something that causes a significant change or disruption in a situation
Example
The unexpected resignation of the CEO threw a catalyst into the mix, causing a lot of uncertainty and speculation.
something that causes or fuels a heated debate or disagreement
Example
The politician's comments were a catalyst for controversy and drew criticism from both sides of the aisle.
Phrases with catalyst
something that triggers or accelerates a process of transformation or improvement
Example
The new government policy is expected to be a catalyst for change in the education system.
Example
The mechanic said that the car's catalyst converter needs to be replaced.
a venture capital fund that invests in early-stage startups with high growth potential
Example
The company received funding from a catalyst fund to develop their new product.
Origins of catalyst
from Greek 'katalusthai', meaning 'to dissolve'
Summary: catalyst in Brief
A 'catalyst' [ˈkætəlɪst] is a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed or changed, or a person or thing that causes a change. Examples include enzymes, which speed up chemical reactions in the body, and highways, which can stimulate economic growth. Phrases like 'catalyst for change' and 'throw a catalyst into the mix' suggest the power of catalysts to trigger or accelerate processes of transformation or disruption.