neutrality
nyoo-TRAL-ih-tee
/njuːˈtræləti/
The state of not supporting or helping either side in a conflict; in climate, the state of having net-zero carbon emissions.
Carbon neutrality is achieved when the amount of carbon emitted is balanced by the amount removed from the atmosphere.
The story behind the word. From 'ne-' (not) and 'uter' (either of two). It literally means 'neither one nor the other.' It has long been used in war and diplomacy before being applied to the 'balance' of carbon.
Word relationships
- net-zero: Net-zero is often used interchangeably but can sometimes include all greenhouse gases, while carbon neutrality specifically focuses on CO2.
- bias: Bias is a preference for one side; neutrality is the absence of preference.
Commonly confused with
- objectivity: Objectivity is about being fair and factual; neutrality is about not taking a side at all.
Word family
- neutral (adjective): Not supporting either side.
- neutralize (verb): To render something ineffective or neutral.
Collocations
- carbon neutrality
- climate neutrality
- achieve neutrality
Example sentences
- "Achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 is a key goal of the Paris Agreement." Global climate commitments.
Memory hook
Think of the 'Neutral' gear in a car—you aren't going forward or backward; you are balanced in the middle. Neither plus nor minus.
When not to use
Don't confuse with 'neutralization' (a chemical process). Neutrality is a state of being.
Fun facts
- Switzerland has maintained a policy of armed neutrality in international conflicts since 1815.
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