chemistry

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "chemistry" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the science or the relationship between two people. For example: "The chemistry between the two actors in the movie was undeniable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His chemistry with Keira Knightley is finely developed and, as expected, the songs are stellar.

The Guardian - Film

Still, the cast Ryan and Cole have assembled have a watchable, scratchy chemistry and the final 15 minutes see the pace ratcheted up several notches.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

They're very problematic and sometimes down right rude to each other, but there's definitely chemistry, and definitely some other emotions entwined in there.

The Guardian

The announcement of the Nobel prize in chemistry follows on Wednesday, with a China-US duo – Ching Tang and Steven van Slyke – cited as potential winners for the invention of the organic light-emitting diode, used in a range of gadgets including mobile phones.

The Guardian

The Lib-Con partnership has been a very British phenomenon, cemented by personal relationships and the success of two party elites discovering sufficient personal chemistry and affinity of objective – principally on fiscal strategy – to keep the show on the road.

The Guardian - Opinion

Flibanserin, which was first studied as an antidepressant, changes brain chemistry.

The Guardian

Sheridan made A-level choices designed to get her on the right track, choosing chemistry, biology and German, only to discover later that she had been "slightly misinformed" as the handful of undergraduate degrees in forensic science all required mathematics.

The Guardian - Money

But the chemistry between Abdul and Cowell was what made those early seasons so amusing, Simon trying manfully to try and keep the show's semblance of seriousness going while, for example, Abdul growled at him or stepping in before Abdul makes things a little too X-rated for a family show.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A Ph.D. in chemistry (sorry chemistry majors) does not bring you to an understanding of patriarchy, social norms, gender expectations, human rights, ect.

The Guardian

This was delivered in the form of a quote from an "insider", who claimed, only too believably, that Chris Martin "tells friends that there's no better way to find song inspiration than experiencing sexual chemistry with another human.

The Guardian - Film

The education secretary told MPs the chemistry A-level would be accredited within weeks; she was "confident" teaching materials such as text books would be ready on time, and apart from maths did not anticipate any further delays.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to the emotional connection between people, ensure that the context clarifies whether you mean a positive or negative "chemistry". Use adjectives like 'good', 'strong', or 'volatile' to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "chemistry" when you actually mean "chemical". "Chemistry" is the study of matter and its properties, while "chemical" is a substance with a distinct molecular composition. For example, avoid saying 'the food had a strong chemistry' when you mean 'the food had a strong chemical odor'.

Linguistic Context

The word "chemistry" functions primarily as a noun. It refers either to the scientific discipline concerned with the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of substances, or to the emotional or psychological interaction between people, as noted by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "chemistry" is a versatile term with two primary meanings: a scientific discipline and the emotional dynamic between individuals. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English. Its high frequency across diverse sources—particularly News & Media—underscores its relevance. Understanding the subtle differences between "chemistry" and related terms like "chemical reaction" is key to precise communication. Whether discussing lab experiments or personal connections, context is crucial to convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chemical science

Focuses specifically on the scientific aspect of chemistry, emphasizing its nature as a field of study.

chemical reactions

Specifically refers to the processes involving the rearrangement of atoms and molecules.

chemical composition

Highlights the specific substances and their proportions that make up a material.

molecular interactions

Focuses on the interactions at the molecular level that define chemical processes.

interpersonal dynamics

Emphasizes the interactions and relationships between individuals, akin to the 'rapport' sense of chemistry.

rapport

Highlights the element of harmonious connection or understanding between people.

compatibility

Indicates the ability of two or more things to exist or work together without conflict.

attraction

Refers to the feeling of being drawn to someone or something.

interaction

Focuses on the mutual or reciprocal action or influence.

relationship

Refers to the way in which two or more concepts, objects, or people are connected.

FAQs

How is "chemistry" used in a sentence?

"Chemistry" can refer to the science or the emotional connection between people. For example: "She studied organic chemistry" or "There was an instant chemistry between them".

What's the difference between "chemistry" and "chemical reaction"?

"Chemistry" is the scientific discipline studying matter and its properties, while "chemical reaction" is a process involving the rearrangement of atoms and molecules.

What can I say instead of "chemistry" when referring to relationships?

Depending on the context, you can use "rapport", "compatibility", or "connection" to describe the relationship between people.

When is it appropriate to use "chemistry" in a scientific context?

Use "chemistry" when discussing the study of matter, its properties, and how it changes. For example, you might say "He has a degree in chemistry" or "The chemistry of the process is complex".