metaphosphate: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “metaphosphate” mean?
A salt or ester of metaphosphoric acid, containing the (PO₃)ₙ unit.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A salt or ester of metaphosphoric acid, containing the (PO₃)ₙ unit.
In chemistry and food science, a polyphosphate compound used as a sequestrant, emulsifier, or water-holding agent. In historical contexts, sometimes refers to a specific polymeric form of phosphate.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Spelling follows standard national conventions for surrounding text.
Connotations
None beyond its technical meaning.
Frequency
Equally rare and specialised in both dialects, confined to technical fields.
Grammar
How to Use “metaphosphate” in a Sentence
[Substance] + contains/is treated with + metaphosphatemetaphosphate of + [Metal]metaphosphate + [verb: acts as, functions as, sequesters]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “metaphosphate” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The metaphosphate composition was analysed.
- A metaphosphate-based sequestrant was used.
American English
- The metaphosphate structure was determined.
- Metaphosphate ingredients are listed on the label.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in procurement/specification documents for food additives or industrial chemicals.
Academic
Primary domain. Used in chemistry, biochemistry, food science, and materials science journals and textbooks.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Core domain. Used in research, product formulation (food, detergents), water treatment, and analytical chemistry.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “metaphosphate”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “metaphosphate”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “metaphosphate”
- Mispronouncing as 'meta-phosph-ate' with a strong pause.
- Confusing with monophosphates or pyrophosphates.
- Using in non-technical contexts where 'phosphate' is meant.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Specific metaphosphates (e.g., sodium, potassium) are approved food additives (E452) in regulated quantities and are considered safe for consumption.
Phosphate is a general term for salts containing the PO₄³⁻ unit. Metaphosphate refers to salts or esters of metaphosphoric acid, typically with a polymeric (PO₃)ₙ structure, representing a condensed or dehydrated form.
In ingredients lists for processed foods (like meats or cheeses), in some detergents, in water treatment chemicals, and in scientific literature on inorganic chemistry.
No, it is exclusively a noun (and sometimes used attributively as an adjective). There is no standard verb form.
A salt or ester of metaphosphoric acid, containing the (PO₃)ₙ unit.
Metaphosphate is usually technical/scientific in register.
Metaphosphate: in British English it is pronounced /ˌmɛtəˈfɒsfeɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌmɛt̬əˈfɑːsfeɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None. The term is strictly technical.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: META-PHOSPHATE. META suggests a changed or polymerised form of a basic PHOSPHATE unit.
Conceptual Metaphor
None applicable; the term is literal and taxonomic.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary field of use for the term 'metaphosphate'?