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diffusion meaning and examples

2025-08-24

Meaning

Diffusion refers to the process by which something spreads or is spread widely. In science, it usually means the movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. In general usage, it can describe the spread of ideas, culture, or information.

Grammar and Usage

  • Part of speech: Noun (uncountable)

  • Typical usage:

    • "diffusion of something"
    • "through diffusion"

  • Used in both scientific and non-scientific contexts.

Common Phrases

  • "diffusion of light"
  • "diffusion of innovation"
  • "cultural diffusion"
  • "oxygen diffusion"
  • "diffusion process"

Collocations

  • verb + diffusion: allow, promote, prevent, measure, facilitate
  • adjective + diffusion: rapid, slow, cultural, molecular
  • diffusion + noun: diffusion process, diffusion rate, diffusion model

Examples

  1. The diffusion of perfume filled the room with fragrance.
  2. Cultural diffusion has influenced the way people cook and dress.
  3. Oxygen diffusion takes place in the lungs.
  4. The internet has accelerated the diffusion of knowledge.
  5. Light diffusion makes the glow appear softer.
  6. The scientist measured the rate of diffusion of salt in water.
  7. Innovations often spread through the diffusion of ideas.
  8. Political movements rely on the diffusion of information.
  • Spread
  • Dissemination
  • Distribution
  • Dispersion
  • Circulation