Words / B2

KOZM-ik/ˈkɒzmɪk/

Cosmic means relating to the universe; also (informal) extremely large: cosmic rays; cosmic scale. Universe is the noun; astronomical is a close twin. Cosmic rays featured in the physics extract. Mix-up: cosmetic; comic. Do not write cosmic for a large school fete without the universe or a clear metaphor.

Meaning

Relating to the universe; also (informal) extremely large.

Examples

• “Cosmic rays featured in the physics extract, not a perfume advert.”
• “A cosmic error in the informal source still needs a named figure if you mean “huge”.”

Good to know

cosmic rays / dust / scale. Noun: cosmos / universe. Trap: cosmetic / comic. Physics and literature. Of the universe, not merely “huge” unless the tone is informal.

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