catalyze
Verb
Hard difficulty
What does “catalyze” mean?
verb.to cause or accelerate a reaction or event.
SAT Usage
The term often appears in scientific or historical contexts, particularly when discussing processes of change or innovation. It emphasizes the active role of an agent in initiating or speeding up significant developments, distinguishing it from similar words like "trigger," which may not imply the same level of intentional influence or involvement.
Common Confusions
Catalyze implies actively prompting a significant change or reaction, while initiate usually suggests simply starting a process without the same level of influence over the outcome.
Do not choose catalyze if the context emphasizes stagnation or lack of change rather than causing or accelerating a reaction or event.
Example Sentences
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The scandal served to catalyze public demand for reform.
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A single speech can catalyze change.