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REFERENCE

physics

n. uncountable
A2 Elementary Oxford US //ˈfɪzɪks// UK //fˈɪzɪks// physics General-service

n. the scientific study of how the physical world works. It looks at things like energy, heat, light, and how objects move.

n. the branch of science concerned with the nature and properties of matter and energy. It encompasses mechanics, radiation, sound, electricity, magnetism, and the structure of atoms.


SIMPLE

She is studying physics at university.

CONTEXTUAL

Understanding the laws of physics helps engineers design safer cars and faster airplanes.

COMPLEX

Theoretical physics often relies on complex mathematical models to predict the behavior of particles that are too small to be observed directly with current technology.

Synonyms
Origin

1580s; from physic (see also -ics), from Middle English phisik, from Old French fisike (“natural science, art of healing”), from Latin physica (“study of nature”), from Ancient Greek φυσική (phusikḗ), feminine singular of φυσικός (phusikós, “natural; physical”), from Ancient Greek φύσις (phúsis, “origin; nature, property”), from Ancient Greek φύω (phúō, “produce; bear; grow”), ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *bʰuH- (“to appear, become, rise up”).

Usage

Treated as a singular noun despite the 's' ending; verbs following it should be in the singular form.

Pitfall

Physics are my favorite subject.Physics is my favorite subject.Names of sciences ending in -ics are singular in construction.

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