preservative

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "preservative" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a sentence to refer to an additive that is used to inhibit spoilage or decay of food, such as, "This food has preservatives, so it will last longer."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The Housewives Associationn discovered that a number of sake makers were putting salicylic acid into the liquor as a preservative.

The Economist

These bonds effectively tie proteins in knots at the molecular level, much as the preservative formaldehyde does.

The Economist

Earlier this month health inspectors began looking into KFC's practice of adding a preservative called magnesium trisilicate to cooking oil and then reusing it for up to ten days.

The Economist

The paper has since been entirely discredited, and Dr Wakefield censured.Other parents fret about thimerosal, a preservative that contains trace amounts of mercury.

The Economist

This mild allergic reaction is often blamed on preservative chemicals called sulphites, but they are responsible for only an eighth of cases.

The Economist

Eventually, the government picked up the bill, paying $90m in settlements.Last year, the drug industry demanded and won protection from litigation over the use of thimerosal, a preservative in most vaccines believed by some to cause autism.

The Economist

What is clear is that hops, which act as a preservative as well as a flavouring, combined with a hefty dose of alcohol for added robustness, ensured that the beer survived the long sea journey to India.

The Economist

They found that parents reported a deterioration in the behaviour of hyperactive youngsters fed on a mixture of four food colourings and a preservative.

The Economist

The archaeological service has taken to burying painstakingly excavated ruins for want of the proper preservative chemicals.

The Economist

The nature and volume of the surviving records from Mesopotamia and Asia Minor indicate a heavy emphasis on the preservative function of writing and the book.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Nice idea, but you're tired from the working week, so you'll just have to resort to one of those lovingly pre-prepared, preservative- and additive-free, super-nutritional packages on offer at your local supermarket.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing food products, clearly specify the type of "preservative" used and its purpose, as some "preservatives" can be controversial due to health concerns.

Common error

Avoid assuming all "preservatives" are universally safe or effective. Different "preservatives" have varying impacts and regulatory statuses depending on their application and potential side effects.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "preservative" is as a noun, referring to a substance that inhibits spoilage or decay. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's also used as an adjective, describing something that tends to preserve. Examples in Ludwig show its use in contexts ranging from food to archaeological preservation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

35%

News & Media

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "preservative" functions primarily as a noun describing a substance that inhibits decay, though it can also act as an adjective. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the usage of "preservative" is considered grammatically correct and common across various contexts. Ludwig's examples showcase its application in diverse fields such as food science, archaeology, and medicine. Usage ranges from discussing food additives to describing actions that maintain the integrity of historical artifacts. While versatile, it’s crucial to provide specific details regarding the type and function of the "preservative" being discussed, especially in sensitive contexts such as food safety and potential health impacts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

anti-spoilage agent

Focuses specifically on preventing spoilage, particularly in food contexts.

shelf-life extender

Emphasizes the action of lengthening how long a product can be stored.

decay inhibitor

Highlights the prevention of decomposition.

conservation measure

Broadens the scope to general preservation efforts, not just additives.

protective ingredient

Highlights that it's a component that provides a safeguard.

maintaining agent

Describes an entity that helps retain the good condition of something

stabilizing compound

Refers to chemical substances that prevent degradation.

curing agent

Specifically related to preserving food, like meats.

embalming fluid

Related to preservation of bodies

wood treatment

Focused on preserving wood from rot and insects.

FAQs

How can I use "preservative" in a sentence?

You can use "preservative" as a noun to refer to an additive that prevents spoilage, such as, "This bread contains a natural "preservative" to extend its shelf life." It can also be used as an adjective, like in "preservative actions".

What are some common examples of food preservatives?

Common food "preservatives" include salt, sugar, vinegar, sodium benzoate, and potassium sorbate. These substances inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, or mold, thus prolonging the food's usability.

Is there a difference between "preservative" and "preservation"?

"Preservative" refers to a substance or agent used to prevent decay, while "preservation" is the process of preventing something from decaying or being damaged. For example, a "preservative" might be used in the "preservation" of food.

What are the potential concerns related to using "preservatives" in food?

Some people have sensitivities or allergies to certain "preservatives". Additionally, there are ongoing debates about the long-term health effects of certain artificial "preservatives", such as nitrates and nitrites, which have been linked to the formation of carcinogens.