catalyst

[ˈkætəlɪst]

catalyst Definition

• 1. a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself undergoing any permanent chemical change
• 2. a 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

Synonyms for catalyst

• stimulus
• spur
• motivation
• impetus
• incentive

Antonyms for catalyst

• inhibitor
• obstacle

Idioms Using catalyst

• be a catalyst for something

  to cause or accelerate a process of change or development

  Example

  The new technology is expected to be a catalyst for innovation in the industry.

• throw a catalyst into the mix

  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.

• catalyst for controversy

  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

• catalyst for change

  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.

• catalyst converter

  a device in a vehicle that reduces the toxicity of emissions from the engine

  Example

  The mechanic said that the car's catalyst converter needs to be replaced.

• catalyst fund

  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'

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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.