solidification

IPA/səˌlɪdɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/
IPA/səˌlɪdɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/

solidification — noun

1. the transformation of a fluid into a solid, firm mass — for instance, when water

1.名詞C1
釋義

the transformation of a fluid into a solid, firm mass — for instance, when water turns to ice or molten wax cools into a candle

例句

The solidification of lava into basalt took only a few hours.

solidification of [substance] into [result]

Iker watched the slow solidification of the candle wax on the table.

同義詞
  • hardening

    focuses on gaining rigidity rather than the full phase change

  • freezing

    specifically involves cold temperatures; solidification can happen by other means

  • crystallization

    a specific type of solidification where atoms form a regular pattern

  • setting

    used for glues, concrete, jelly — substances that firm up through a chemical reaction or cooling

反義詞
  • melting

    the reverse process: solid turning to liquid

  • liquefaction

    becoming liquid, especially of soil or gas

用法筆記

Used chiefly for physical and chemical processes; subject is typically a liquid, gas, or molten substance.

常見錯誤

The solidification of the two companies took two years.
The consolidation of the two companies took two years.
💡'solidification' describes a change of physical state; 'consolidation' means combining separate things into one.

2. the shift from being uncertain or changeable to being firm, clear, and settled —

2.名詞C1
釋義

the shift from being uncertain or changeable to being firm, clear, and settled — for example, when a rough idea becomes a firm plan, or a temporary arrangement turns into a lasting rule

例句

The solidification of their wedding plans came after weeks of family talks.

solidification of [plans/ideas/arrangements]

Constanza noticed a gradual solidification of the firm's remote-work policy.

同義詞
  • consolidation

    emphasises bringing separate parts together into a unified whole

  • crystallization

    metaphor from chemistry; suggests clarity emerging from a previously confused state

  • establishment

    stresses the formal or institutional fixing of something

  • cementing

    focuses on strengthening bonds or making relationships firmer

反義詞

用法筆記

Figurative extension of sense 1. Object is typically an abstract thing: a plan, policy, reputation, relationship, or idea. Distinguish from sense 1, which applies to physical substances only.

常見錯誤

The water underwent solidification into a firm agreement.
The water underwent solidification into ice.
💡sense 2 only applies to abstract things like plans or ideas, not physical substances.