chemistry
/ˈkemɪstri/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈkemɪstri/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈke-mə-strē/ (ame, mw)
chemistry — noun
1. The branch of science that examines the makeup of substances, the ways they chan
The branch of science that examines the makeup of substances, the ways they change when brought together, and the rules that govern those changes.
Aiko found chemistry difficult at first, but later grew to love the subject.
collocation: find chemistry difficult / love chemistry
In chemistry class, the students mixed two clear liquids and watched them turn bright blue.
Dr. Okafor won an award for her research in environmental chemistry.
Priya decided to study chemistry at university because she wants to create safer plastics.
- chemical science
formal; used mainly in academic or institutional names
- science
much broader; includes physics, biology, and other fields
文法句型
study + chemistry
chemistry + [adjective subfield]
用法筆記
An uncountable noun. Often paired with subfield adjectives such as 'organic', 'inorganic', 'physical', 'analytical', or 'environmental' to name specific branches.
常見錯誤
2. The set of chemical traits and reactions that belong to one specific material —
The set of chemical traits and reactions that belong to one specific material — for example, whether it dissolves in water, burns easily, or reacts with acid.
The chemistry of this soil makes it perfect for growing rice.
collocation: the chemistry of [substance]
Wen tested the chemistry of the water from the local river for pollution.
Doctors can check a patient's blood chemistry to look for health problems.
The chemist studied the chemistry of the new compound to confirm it was safe.
- composition
focuses on the ingredients or elements that make up a substance
- makeup
informal; refers to the combination of parts or qualities
- properties
more general; includes physical as well as chemical characteristics
文法句型
the chemistry + of + [substance]
用法筆記
Frequently used with 'of' to specify which substance is being described ('the chemistry of water', 'the chemistry of the soil'). Also appears in compound nouns such as 'blood chemistry', 'soil chemistry', and 'brain chemistry'.
常見錯誤
3. A natural feeling of understanding and attraction between two people that makes
A natural feeling of understanding and attraction between two people that makes them feel drawn to each other, often leading to a romantic or very close bond.
The two actors had great chemistry on screen, which made their love scenes feel real.
collocation: on-screen chemistry
You cannot force chemistry between two people — it either happens or it does not.
From their first date, Ravi and Nadia knew the chemistry between them was special.
The band members had good personal chemistry, which helped them write songs together.
- spark
more sudden and exciting; often describes the first moment of attraction
- rapport
focuses on smooth communication and mutual understanding; less romantic
- connection
broader; can be intellectual, emotional, or spiritual
- attraction
more focused on physical or romantic pull; lacks the sense of natural fit
- indifference
complete lack of interest or feeling
- tension
negative dynamic where people feel uncomfortable with each other
文法句型
have + chemistry
chemistry + between + [people]
用法筆記
Used without an article ('have chemistry', not 'have a chemistry'). Commonly describes performers on screen or stage, romantic partners, and teammates. Can also refer to close friendships or working relationships.