catalyst
Translation
catalyst, impetus
Examples
Platinum is used as a catalyst.
Platinum is used as a catalyst.
The event was a catalyst for social change.
The event was a catalyst for social change.
Grammar Patterns
a catalyst ((for sth.)) an agent that provokes or speeds up significant change The event was a catalyst for social change.
Similar Words
Synonyms: impetus, stimulus, accelerator
Etymology
From Greek 'katalysis' (dissolution). The '-yst' suffix denotes an agent, like in 'analyst'.
Memory Tips
A catalyst starts a change, like a 'cat' that 'lists' all the reasons to start something.