B1adjective 2K

Nuclear

UK /["/ˈnjuːkliə(r)/"]/ US /["/ˈnuːkliər/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

using, producing or resulting from nuclear energy

Listen to definition

In simple words: Related to a part of an atom that can produce energy or weapons.

Examples

• The nuclear power plant provides energy to thousands of homes.
• Some countries are working to reduce their nuclear arsenals.
• Nuclear reactions can release large amounts of energy.
• The scientists studied the effects of nuclear radiation on living organisms.
• The debate over nuclear energy continues among environmentalists and policymakers.

Usage notes

Used in scientific contexts, discussions about energy, and military topics. Less appropriate in casual conversations or when discussing unrelated subjects.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'nucleus' — the center of an atom where atomic energy comes from.

Collocations

• nuclear energy
• nuclear power
• nuclear weapons
• nuclear family
• nuclear physics

Synonyms

• atomic
• radial
• radioactive

Antonyms

• non-nuclear

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'nucular' – the correct pronunciation is 'nuclear'.
• Using it inaccurately to refer to all forms of energy instead of just atomic energy.
• Assuming all nuclear topics are negative; some contexts involve positive uses like power generation.