Neutralise

To neutralise means to render something ineffective or harmless by applying an opposite or counteracting force or influence. This often involves balancing out opposing factors or eliminating an undesired effect. It can apply to a wide range of situations, from chemical reactions and political conflicts to emotional states and strategic advantages. The core concept is to nullify or diminish the power or impact of something, bringing it to a state of equilibrium or insignificance.

Neutralise meaning with examples

• The scientists added a base to the acidic solution to neutralise it, making the mixture safe. This chemical reaction involved counteracting the acidity with an opposite element.
• Security forces deployed to the border area aimed to neutralise the threat of rebel fighters, quelling violence and restoring order. The goal was to disarm and suppress any form of armed resistance.
• She used her diplomacy skills to neutralise the tense situation between the two parties, fostering better collaboration and cooperation after a major conflict.
• The marketing team worked hard to neutralise the negative publicity, launching a counter-campaign to correct misinformation and rehabilitate the brand's image.
• The coach instructed the team to neutralise their opponents' star player by assigning a specific defender, diminishing their impact on the game's outcome and making them less influential.