prevent clumping

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prevent clumping" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to describe the action of stopping particles or items from sticking together. Example: "To ensure the smooth operation of the machine, it is essential to add a dispersant to prevent clumping of the materials."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

This helps prevent clumping.

The New York Times - Health

Stir food continuously to prevent clumping.

Cornell University

An organic solvent called acetonitrile helps keep the particles away from the walls and prevent clumping.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It is used as a safe additive in cheese to prevent clumping.

Independent

Grated organic cheese, for example, contains wood starch to prevent clumping.

The Washington Post

Regular table salt is mined from underground salt deposits, and includes a small portion of calcium silicate, an anti-caking agent added to prevent clumping.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

To be effective, guar gum must be mixed with a blender to prevent clumps, and allowed to reach its full viscosity before incorporation, often resulting in an undesirable food texture or mouth-feel.

European Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Sift the flour to prevent clumps.

WikiHow

You can also brush your lashes with an eyelash comb to try to prevent clumps.

WikiHow

If you apply mascara in an up and down motion that will prevent clumps.

WikiHow

Try applying mascara in a small, zigzag movement as this can help prevent clumps of mascara forming in the first place.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "prevent clumping" in recipes, specify the method to achieve this, such as "stir constantly to "prevent clumping"".

Common error

Don't just state the need to "prevent clumping"; detail the specific actions or ingredients that achieve this, otherwise your advice lacks practical value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prevent clumping" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. As Ludwig AI also states, it indicates the reason or intent behind an action, aiming to avert the formation of clumps.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

30%

Wiki

23%

News & Media

23%

Less common in

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "prevent clumping" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression with the purpose of avoiding the formation of unwanted masses in various applications. Ludwig AI indicates that its primary function is to highlight the aim of averting clumps. This phrase is versatile across different domains, with Science, Wiki, and News & Media as the most frequent contexts, although the language used can vary slightly between formal and informal settings. Practical application involves giving concrete steps to inhibit the formation of clumps. Alternatives such as "avoid aggregation" or "stop agglomeration" offer similar meanings, providing variety in expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

avoid aggregation

This alternative focuses on avoiding the gathering of particles into a mass.

stop agglomeration

This suggests halting the process of particles joining to form a larger mass.

inhibit lumping

This conveys the idea of impeding the formation of lumps.

deter coalescing

This refers to discouraging the merging of separate elements into one.

reduce clustering

This focuses on lessening the tendency of items to group together.

discourage congealing

This suggests hindering the process of solidifying or becoming viscous.

control solidification

This highlights the control over the process of becoming solid to avoid forming clumps.

hinder consolidation

This refers to impeding the process of becoming more solid or firm.

manage coagulation

This focuses on controlling the process of blood or other liquids thickening.

mitigate caking

This suggests alleviating the formation of a hard, crusty layer.

FAQs

How can I use "prevent clumping" in a sentence?

You can use "prevent clumping" to describe actions taken to avoid the formation of clumps, such as, "Add an anti-caking agent to "prevent clumping" in powdered sugar".

What are some alternatives to "prevent clumping"?

You can use alternatives like "avoid aggregation", "stop agglomeration", or "inhibit lumping" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "prevent clumping" or "prevent clumps"?

Both "prevent clumping" and "prevent clumps" are grammatically correct, but "prevent clumping" focuses on the action or process, while "prevent clumps" refers to the result. The choice depends on the context.

What does it mean to "prevent clumping" in a recipe?

In a recipe, to "prevent clumping" means taking steps to ensure ingredients mix smoothly and don't form undesirable lumps. This might involve sifting dry ingredients, gradually adding liquids while stirring, or using an immersion blender to smooth sauces.