neutralize

Everyday

1. To stop something from having an effect, so it no longer does harm. tree →
2. (science) To mix an acid with a base (alkali) so that the result is neither acid nor alkali. tree →
3. (formal, euphemism) In war or crime stories, to stop or kill an enemy. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons, toothpaste or baking soda neutralizes acid, and indigestion tablets neutralize stomach acid; you test with litmus paper or indicator. In games and stories a team neutralizes a threat. Phrases: neutralize an acid, neutralize a smell, neutralize the threat.

Examples

• Baking soda can neutralize vinegar. tree →
• We added alkali to neutralize the acid in the test tube. tree →
• Bee stings are acid, so some people use soap to neutralize them. tree →
• The charcoal neutralized the bad smell in the fridge. tree →
• The defender neutralized their best striker. tree →
• The soldiers were told to neutralize the threat. tree →

Note

US spelling neutralize, UK often neutralise. Noun: neutralization. Linked to «neutral» (in the middle, pH 7). Safety: never mix cleaning chemicals at home to «neutralize» them. Watch the euphemism: in war news «neutralize» can mean kill.