B2noun1K

Oxygen

UK /["/ˈɒksɪdʒən/"]/US /["/ˈɑːksɪdʒən/"]/

Definition

a chemical element. Oxygen is a gas that is present in air and water and is necessary for people, animals and plants to live.

In simple words: A gas that people and animals breathe to live.

Examples

  • The patient didn't seem to be getting enough oxygen.
  • After dark the plants stop producing oxygen.
  • There was a risk the brain might be starved of oxygen.
  • the blood which carries oxygen to the brain

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in discussions about health, science, and the environment. Generally appropriate in any context related to breathing or air quality.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'ox' (like an animal) needing 'gen' (like generating) air to breathe.

Collocations

  • pure
  • liquid
  • atmospheric
  • carry
  • contain
  • absorb
  • atom
  • molecule
  • level
  • a lack of oxygen
  • a supply of oxygen

Synonyms

  • air
  • gas
  • O2

Antonyms

  • carbon dioxide
  • nitrogen

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'oxigen' - a common misspelling.
  • Using ' oxygen' with unnecessary articles, e.g., 'the oxygen' when discussing its general properties.
  • Mixing up 'oxygen' with other gases like 'carbon dioxide'.