Neutral
ˈnjuːtrəl
Definitions
4 meaningsNot taking sides; impartial; unbiased.
ˈnjuːtrəl
Not supporting or helping either side in a conflict, disagreement, etc.; impartial.
The mediator remained neutral during the negotiations.
💡 Simply: It means you're not choosing sides. Like, if two friends are arguing, you can be neutral and not pick who's right.
👶 For kids: Being neutral is like not choosing a favorite color when you like all of them!
More Examples
The country declared itself neutral in the war.
She tried to remain neutral in the argument between her friends.
How It's Used
"Switzerland has historically maintained a neutral stance in international conflicts."
"A judge must remain neutral in court proceedings."
Lacking distinguishing features or characteristics.
ˈnjuːtrəl
Not of a marked character; neither good nor bad; mediocre.
The critic gave the film a neutral review.
💡 Simply: It means something is not very strong or exciting. Like, a neutral color is like beige or grey – not too bright or dark.
👶 For kids: Neutral is like a color that's not too bright and not too dark. Like a quiet color.
More Examples
The walls were painted a neutral shade of beige.
He offered a neutral comment on the controversial topic.
How It's Used
"The artist used a neutral color palette to create a calming effect."
"The report provided a neutral assessment of the situation."
A person, nation, or state that does not take part in a war or dispute.
ˈnjuːtrəl
Switzerland is known for its long history of neutrality.
💡 Simply: It's like a country that stays out of a fight between other countries. They don't pick sides.
👶 For kids: A neutral is a friend who doesn't choose a side when others are arguing.
More Examples
The conference was attended by representatives from both sides, as well as neutrals.
The treaty guaranteed the neutrality of the island nation.
How It's Used
"The agreement granted neutral status to the small nation."
"Several countries have declared themselves neutrals during the conflict."
A position of a gear in a mechanism (such as a car transmission) that allows the engine to run without driving any of the connected components.
ˈnjuːtrəl
The position of a gear in which no power is transmitted.
Always check to make sure the car is in neutral before starting.
💡 Simply: Like when a car's engine is running, but the wheels aren't moving. It's just idling.
👶 For kids: Like when your toy car's wheels aren't moving but the engine sounds are still on.
More Examples
Shifting to neutral allows the car to coast.
The mechanic diagnosed a problem with the car's neutral gear.
How It's Used
"The car was in neutral as it was towed."
"To start the engine, the transmission must be in neutral or park."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
to remain neutral
To not take sides or become involved in a conflict or argument.
"During the political debate, the moderator tried to remain neutral to ensure fairness."
neutral territory
A location or area that is not controlled by any of the involved parties in a conflict or dispute, often used for discussions or agreements.
"The peace talks were held in neutral territory to avoid escalating tensions."
From French *neutre*, from Latin *neuter* 'neither one nor the other', from *ne-* 'not' + *uter* 'either'.
The term 'neutral' gained prominence during the Napoleonic Wars, referring to countries that did not ally themselves with either France or the coalition against it. It evolved to encompass broader meanings of impartiality.
Memory tip
Imagine a referee in a game. They have to be neutral to be fair to both teams.
Word Origin
"neither"