Reading Theme:
Gravity Definition, Usage & Common Examples (3 meaning)
Meaning 1：force of attraction (gravity)
gravity
/ˈɡrævəti/
n.
The force that pulls things down towards the ground, like when you drop something.
force of attraction
➕
/ˈfɔːrs əv əˈtrækʃən/
n.
The natural force that causes objects with mass to pull towards each other, commonly experienced as the downward pull on Earth.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'gravitas' (heavy, serious) + -ity noun suffix.
💡 Mnemonic
Gravity grabs things down, like a grave's weight to the ground.
📖 Example
When you jump on the moon, you go much higher because the gravity there is much weaker than on Earth.
Jumps on the moon are higher due to its weaker gravitational pull compared to Earth.
🔗 Collocations
center of gravity – the point where an object's weight is evenly balanced
gravity well – a region in space with strong gravitational influence
zero gravity – a state of weightlessness or absence of gravitational force
🔄 Synonyms
attraction (n.) – the force that draws objects together
pull (n.) – a force that moves something towards itself
gravitation (n.) – the movement caused by gravitational attraction
🚫 Antonyms
levity (n.) – lightness or lack of seriousness, often used figuratively
🌱 Derivatives
gravitational (adj.) – relating to or caused by gravity
gravitate (v.) – to move towards something due to gravity or attraction
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from Latin 'gravitas', meaning weight or seriousness. Isaac Newton used it in physics to describe the universal force of attraction between masses.
Meaning 2：seriousness (gravity)
gravity
/ˈɡrævəti/
n.
The serious and important feeling or nature of something, or someone's very serious manner.
seriousness
➕
/ˈsɪəriəsnəs/
n.
The quality of being earnest, important, and solemn in manner or tone.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The doctor spoke with great gravity when explaining the test results.
The doctor explained the results in a very serious and weighty manner.
🔗 Collocations
with gravity – in a serious and solemn way
gravity of the situation – the seriousness of the circumstances
speak with gravity – to talk in a grave and earnest tone
🔄 Synonyms
solemnity (n.) – the state of being serious and dignified
earnestness (n.) – sincere and intense conviction
severity (n.) – strictness or harshness in manner
🚫 Antonyms
Meaning 3：formal dignity (gravity)
gravity
/ˈɡrævəti/
n.
A very formal and respectful quality or atmosphere, often at an important ceremony.
formal dignity
➕
/ˈfɔːrməl ˈdɪɡnəti/
n.
The quality of being formal, dignified, and respectful, especially in ceremonial or important events.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The award ceremony was conducted with great dignity and gravity.
The award ceremony was carried out with much dignity and a formal, respectful atmosphere.
🔗 Collocations
with great gravity – with much formality and solemnity
gravity of the occasion – the formal importance of the event
conduct with gravity – to perform with dignified formality
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
informality (n.) – lack of formality or ceremony
casualness (n.) – relaxed and unofficial manner
Wordbook
Your data is saved in this browser