corrosion

corrosion — noun

1. the gradual damage or destruction of a material, especially metal, caused by che

1.名詞B2
釋義

the gradual damage or destruction of a material, especially metal, caused by chemical reactions with substances such as water, air, or acids

例句

The coastal pipeline was replaced after corrosion from salt water had eaten through the metal.

collocation: corrosion from + substance (salt water)

Kofi sprays his garden tools with oil to protect them from corrosion each wet season.

collocation: protect from corrosion

同義詞
  • rusting

    refers only to corrosion of iron or steel, not other metals

  • erosion

    broader term covering physical wearing away (by wind, water) as well as chemical

  • deterioration

    gradual decline from any cause, not only chemical

反義詞
  • preservation

    keeping material in good condition through protective measures

文法句型

corrosion + of + noun

corrosion + from + noun

prevent/protect + corrosion

用法筆記

Typically uncountable. Subject is usually a metal or material; the agent (cause) follows from (corrosion from salt water). Frequently paired with verbs of prevention: prevent, protect against, resist, slow down.

常見錯誤

❌The acid corrosion the metal quickly.
✅The acid corrodes the metal quickly.
💡Corrosion is a noun, not a verb; use corrode for the action.

2. the visible marks, rust, or discolouration that appear on a surface after chemic

2.名詞B2
釋義

the visible marks, rust, or discolouration that appear on a surface after chemical damage has taken place

例句

Nadia brushed the green corrosion off the old copper pan with a soft cloth.

specific type: green corrosion on copper (patina)

A thick layer of brown corrosion covered the iron gate of the abandoned warehouse.

collocation: layer of corrosion

同義詞
  • rust

    used only for the reddish-brown corrosion product on iron or steel

  • patina

    a green layer on copper or bronze, sometimes valued for its appearance

  • tarnish

    dulling of shiny metals like silver, gold, or brass

反義詞
  • polish

    shiny, clean surface with no corrosion visible

  • shine

    the bright, reflective quality of an uncorroded metal surface

文法句型

corrosion + on + surface

layer / patch of corrosion

用法筆記

Often countable with a/an or plural when referring to specific spots, patches, or layers (several spots of corrosion). When uncountable, refers to the substance as a mass (corrosion had built up). The colour of the corrosion depends on the metal: green on copper/bronze, brown/orange on iron/steel.

常見錯誤

❌I need to clean the corrosion off this gold ring.
✅I need to clean the tarnish off this gold ring.
💡The specific word depends on the metal; tarnish is the correct term for gold, silver, and brass.