Counteracts Meaning in English

word · lemma: counteract

US

ˈkaʊntɝˌækt

KOWN-ter-AKT

UK

kˌaʊntəɹˈækts

kown-tuh-RAKTS

Definition

To do something that reduces or acts against the effects of something else; to prevent or lessen a negative result.

Usage & Nuances

'Counteracts' is formal and often used in science, medicine, and technical contexts. Common with negative things (like 'counteracts the side effects') or forces. Don't confuse with 'reacts', which simply means responding.

• Spanish: contrarresta
• Portuguese (BR): neutraliza - contrabalança
• Portuguese (PT): neutraliza - contrabalança
• Chinese (Simplified): 抵消 - 抵抗
• Chinese (Traditional): 抵消 - 抵抗
• Hindi: प्रतिकार करता है - असर को कम करता है
• Arabic: يقاوم - يُضاد
• Bengali: প্রতিক্রিয়া করা - প্রতিহত করা
• Russian: нейтрализует - противодействует
• Japanese: 打ち消す - 相殺する
• Vietnamese: chống lại - làm giảm tác động
• Korean: 상쇄하다 - 억제하다
• Turkish: etkisini azaltmak - karşı koymak
• Urdu: مزاحمت کرنا - اثر کو زائل کرنا
• Indonesian: menangkal - mengimbangi

Example Sentences

This medicine counteracts the pain.

basic

The sunscreen counteracts the harmful effects of the sun.

basic

Exercise counteracts stress.

basic

Drinking water counteracts the effects of dehydration quickly.

natural

Caffeine counteracts some of the drowsiness caused by cold medicine.

natural

Sometimes, one ingredient in a dish counteracts the flavor of another, making the meal taste better.

natural