A2noun1K

Physics

UK /["/ˈfɪzɪks/"]/US /["/ˈfɪzɪks/"]/

Definition

the scientific study of matter and energy and the relationships between them, including the study of forces, heat, light, sound, electricity and the structure of atoms

In simple words: The study of matter and energy and how they interact.

Examples

  • a degree in physics
  • **quantum/theoretical physics**
  • the **laws of physics**
  • the physics laboratory/department
  • a **physics professor/teacher**
  • to study the physics of the electron
  • Einstein restructured modern physics.
  • the frontiers of fundamental physics
  • the undergraduate physics curriculum
  • university physics departments

Usage notes

Use 'physics' when discussing scientific concepts related to forces, energy, and motion. Suitable in academic settings but may be too formal in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'fixes' — think of fixing problems with matter and energy.

Collocations

  • classical
  • Newtonian
  • modern
  • the laws of physics

Synonyms

  • natural philosophy
  • mechanics
  • dynamics
  • theory of relativity

Antonyms

  • metaphysics
  • pseudoscience

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'physique', which refers to a person's physical body.
  • Used inappropriately as a verb, incorrectly saying 'to physics'.