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Wordabulary

element

Pronunciation
Noun B1 Intermediate

Quick answer

A basic substance made of only one type of atom, or more generally, one part of something larger.

"Gold and oxygen are both examples of chemical elements."

Synonyms and antonyms

Synonyms

Usage notes

In chemistry, "element" has a very specific meaning; in everyday speech it can also just mean one part of something, as in "an element of surprise".

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "Gold and oxygen are both examples of chemical _____."

Answer: element

In your own words, what does "element" mean?

A basic substance made of only one type of atom, or more generally, one part of something larger.

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