C1noun1K

Gravity

UK /["/ˈɡrævəti/"]/US /["/ˈɡrævəti/"]/

Definition

the force that attracts objects in space towards each other, and that on the earth pulls them towards the centre of the planet, so that things fall to the ground when they are dropped

In simple words: A force that pulls objects towards each other, especially towards the Earth.

Examples

  • Gravity keeps the planets in orbit around the sun.
  • The astronaut experienced a sensation of weightlessness due to microgravity.
  • The gravity of the situation was clear when the manager announced the layoffs.
  • Scientists study gravity to understand how objects attract each other in space.
  • He didn’t realize the gravity of his mistake until it was too late.

Usage notes

Gravity is often discussed in scientific contexts. It's not typically used in casual conversation unless in a related topic (like falling objects).

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'grave' — when something is heavy and falls, it has gravity.

Collocations

  • low
  • weak
  • zero
  • defy
  • pull something
  • bend something
  • by gravity
  • centre/​center of gravity
  • the force of gravity
  • the law of gravity
  • extreme
  • appreciate
  • realize
  • understand
  • with gravity
  • extreme
  • appreciate
  • realize
  • understand
  • with gravity

Synonyms

  • force
  • attraction
  • pull
  • weight
  • heaviness

Antonyms

  • levity
  • weightlessness

Common mistakes

  • Confusing gravity with 'gravitational pull'.
  • Using 'gravity' as a verb.
  • Mispronouncing as 'gravitee'.