ENGLISH
REFERENCE

corrosive

adj.
C1 Advanced US //kɝˈoʊsɪv// UK //kəɹˈəʊsɪv// cor·ro·sive

adj. describing a substance that can damage or destroy things like metal or skin through a chemical reaction. It can also describe something that slowly ruins a relationship or a person's mood.

adj. having the power to cause the gradual destruction of a substance by chemical action. In a figurative sense, it describes influences that are harmful or destructive to social or emotional structures.


SIMPLE

The corrosive acid quickly ate through the metal pipe.

CONTEXTUAL

Workers must wear protective gloves when handling corrosive cleaning agents to prevent chemical burns.

COMPLEX

The corrosive atmosphere of the workplace, marked by constant suspicion and backbiting, eventually led to the resignation of the entire creative team.

Synonyms
Origin

From Old French corrosif.

Usage

Often used figuratively to describe social or psychological decay; typically precedes the noun it modifies.

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