Counteract

/ˈkaʊntərˌækt/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to act against something in order to reduce its force or neutralize it
The medication was developed to counteract the side effects of the treatment.
to oppose or mitigate an effect or influence
She used a cold pack to counteract the swelling from her ankle injury.
to counterbalance; to offset
In order to counteract the weight gain from her diet, she started exercising regularly.
to take action to combat or neutralize
The government initiated measures to counteract the effects of climate change.

Etymology

Originates from Latin 'contra' meaning 'against' and 'agere' meaning 'to act'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

counteract climate change
To take action aimed at reducing the impacts of climate change.
counteract negative effects
To take measures to lessen adverse outcomes.
counteract temptation
To deliberately act against the desire to do something.
counteract criticism
To respond in a way that diminishes criticism.

Related Words

counter
To act against something.
action
The process of doing something.
mitigate
To make less severe.

Slang Meanings

To get back at something.
They need to counteract those bad vibes.
To play against the odds.
He's always trying to counteract the haters.