Cool MateAgent vs Catalyst
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Agent | Catalyst | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | A person or thing that does something for another person or thing. | Something that helps a change happen faster. |
| CEFR level | B1 | - |
| Part of speech | noun | |
| Usage notes | Often used in business or formal contexts. Not typically used in casual conversation to describe people outside their role. In legal terms, it refers to someone authorized to act on behalf of another. | Used in scientific contexts to describe substances speeding up reactions, and metaphorically in social settings. Avoid in overly casual scenarios. |
Frequently asked questions: Agent vs Catalyst
What's the difference between "Agent" and "Catalyst"?
"Agent" means: A person or thing that does something for another person or thing. "Catalyst" means: Something that helps a change happen faster.
When should I use "Agent" and "Catalyst"?
They can all be used in everyday English.