chemical
word
Definition
Related to chemistry or to substances produced or used in chemical processes. As a noun, it also means a chemical substance, especially one used in industry, science, or products.
Usage & Nuances
Used both as an adjective ('chemical reaction', 'chemical smell') and as a noun ('cleaning chemicals'). In everyday speech, 'chemicals' often suggests artificial or potentially harmful substances, although scientifically everything is made of chemicals. Common collocations include 'chemical engineer', 'chemical formula', and 'chemical waste'.
Example Sentences
People hear 'natural' and assume it's better than anything chemical.
natural
This water has a chemical smell.
basic
The factory stores dangerous chemicals.
basic
We learned about a chemical reaction in class.
basic
I try to buy soap without harsh chemicals.
natural
The lab was closed after a chemical leak.
natural