Words / B2

dy-LOOT/daɪˈluːt/

To dilute is to make a liquid weaker with water, or to weaken an effect: dilute the sample; dilute the brand / offer. Water down is the informal twin. Concentrate is an opposite in the lab. Heads warned extra options would dilute A-level. Do not use it for simply adding staff.

Meaning

To make a liquid weaker by adding water; also to weaken an effect.

Examples

• “Extra options will dilute the core A-level offer, heads warned.”
• “Dilute the reagent as the protocol states, which is the chemistry sense.”

Good to know

dilute with water; dilute the impact / brand. Informal: water down. Lab opposite: concentrate. Policy: a diluted offer. Not “dilute the building”.

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