Basic Details
Word: Catalyst
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being changed itself, or a person or thing that brings about change.
Synonyms: Acceleration agent, instigator, stimulus
Antonyms: Hindrance, obstruction
Idioms and Phrases
- Catalyst for change: Something that causes significant change or action. Example: "The new policy was a catalyst for change in the way students learn."
- Serve as a catalyst: To act as a trigger for something to happen. Example: "His speech served as a catalyst for the community to rally around the cause."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The introduction of the internet was a catalyst for the way we communicate today.
Example 2: In a chemistry experiment, a small amount of catalyst can speed up the reaction significantly.
Example 3: The artist's work acted as a catalyst for a new movement in modern art.
Fun Fact
The term "catalyst" comes from the Greek word 'katalusis', which means 'dissolution' or 'a breaking down'. It was first used in the context of chemistry in the 19th century.
Famous Quote
"Life is not merely to be alive, but to be well." - Marcus Tullius Cicero. This quote illustrates how a catalyst can improve and enhance life experiences.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "catalyst" mean?
a) A type of plant
b) A substance that speeds up a reaction
c) A method of cooking
d) A form of transportation
Answer: b) A substance that speeds up a reaction
2. Which of these is a synonym of "catalyst"?
a) Hindrance
b) Obstruction
c) Acceleration agent
d) Blockage
Answer: c) Acceleration agent
3. Which is an antonym of "catalyst"?
a) N/A
b) Acceleration agent
c) Hindrance
d) Stimulus
Answer: c) Hindrance
4. Which sentence uses "catalyst" correctly?
a) The catalyst cooked dinner last night.
b) She served as a catalyst for the charity event.
c) He was a catalyst in the school play.
d) The cat is a catalyst of the garden.
Answer: b) She served as a catalyst for the charity event.
5. What does "catalyst for change" mean?
a) Something that stops change
b) Something that causes significant change
c) A person who cooks food
d) A kind of chemical reaction
Answer: b) Something that causes significant change
