B2 adjective Formal

amalgamation

/əˌmæl.ɡəˈmeɪ.ʃən/

The process or result of combining or uniting multiple separate elements, such as organizations, ideas, or substances, into a single integrated whole. It is frequently used in formal contexts to describe the merging of companies or the blending of different cultural or artistic styles.

Examples

3 of 5
1

The new recipe is a delicious amalgamation of traditional Italian flavors and modern cooking techniques.

The new recipe is a delicious amalgamation of traditional Italian flavors and modern cooking techniques.

2

The committee proposed the amalgamation of the two departments to reduce administrative costs.

The committee proposed the amalgamation of the two departments to reduce administrative costs.

3

His outfit was a strange amalgamation of 90s grunge and futuristic fashion.

His outfit was a strange amalgamation of 90s grunge and futuristic fashion.

Word Family

Noun
amalgamation
Verb
amalgamate
Adjective
amalgamated
Related
amalgam
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Memory Tip

Think of 'a meal' (a-meal-gamation). Just as a meal is a combination of many different ingredients mixed together to make one dish, an amalgamation is a mix of many things into one.

Quick Quiz

The city's unique architecture is a fascinating ________ of colonial and modern styles.

Correct!

The correct answer is: amalgamation

Examples

1

The new recipe is a delicious amalgamation of traditional Italian flavors and modern cooking techniques.

everyday

The new recipe is a delicious amalgamation of traditional Italian flavors and modern cooking techniques.

2

The committee proposed the amalgamation of the two departments to reduce administrative costs.

formal

The committee proposed the amalgamation of the two departments to reduce administrative costs.

3

His outfit was a strange amalgamation of 90s grunge and futuristic fashion.

informal

His outfit was a strange amalgamation of 90s grunge and futuristic fashion.

4

Modern English is an amalgamation of various linguistic influences, primarily Germanic and Romance languages.

academic

Modern English is an amalgamation of various linguistic influences, primarily Germanic and Romance languages.

5

The amalgamation of the two firms created the largest telecommunications provider in the country.

business

The amalgamation of the two firms created the largest telecommunications provider in the country.

Word Family

Noun
amalgamation
Verb
amalgamate
Adjective
amalgamated
Related
amalgam

Common Collocations

corporate amalgamation corporate amalgamation
perfect amalgamation perfect amalgamation
amalgamation of interests amalgamation of interests
strange amalgamation strange amalgamation
undergo amalgamation undergo amalgamation

Common Phrases

result of an amalgamation

result of an amalgamation

amalgamation of styles

amalgamation of styles

seamless amalgamation

seamless amalgamation

Often Confused With

amalgamation vs amalgam

Amalgam refers to the specific mixture itself (like a mercury alloy), whereas amalgamation is the process of combining or the state of being combined.

amalgamation vs merger

A merger is specifically used for the joining of two commercial companies, while amalgamation can apply to abstract ideas, styles, or chemicals.

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Usage Notes

The word is most appropriate in professional or academic writing to describe the complex joining of diverse parts. It implies that the original components have been integrated so thoroughly that they form a new, singular identity.

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Common Mistakes

Learners often use the noun 'amalgamation' when they should use the verb 'amalgamate' (e.g., saying 'to amalgamation two things' instead of 'to amalgamate').

💡

Memory Tip

Think of 'a meal' (a-meal-gamation). Just as a meal is a combination of many different ingredients mixed together to make one dish, an amalgamation is a mix of many things into one.

📖

Word Origin

Derived from the Medieval Latin 'amalgama,' which originally referred to a mercury alloy used in alchemy to soften or combine metals.

Grammar Patterns

Countable noun: can be used in plural form (amalgamations). Often followed by the preposition 'of' to indicate what is being combined. Functions as a singular subject when referring to the single result of a combination.
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Cultural Context

In urban planning and sociology, it is often used to describe the blending of different ethnic neighborhoods or architectural styles in global cities.

Quick Quiz

The city's unique architecture is a fascinating ________ of colonial and modern styles.

Correct!

The correct answer is: amalgamation

Related Words

bristling

B2

To bristle means to have hair or fur stand up away from the skin, typically due to fear or anger. Figuratively, it describes being covered with or full of something, or showing sharp annoyance or defensiveness.

broad

B2

Describes something that is physically wide or has a large distance from side to side. In abstract or academic contexts, it refers to a scope, range, or category that is comprehensive and covers a wide variety of topics or ideas.

broadcaster

B2

A broadcaster is a person or an organization that transmits programs or information via radio or television. It can refer to a large corporation that owns media channels or the individual presenter who speaks on air.

broadminded

B2

Describes someone who is willing to accept or tolerate beliefs, behaviors, or lifestyles that differ from their own. It implies a lack of prejudice and a receptiveness to new ideas or unconventional opinions.

broadside

B2

To broadside means to hit or collide with the side of something, most commonly a vehicle. Metaphorically, it refers to launching a sudden, forceful, and often public verbal or written attack against someone or something.

brogue

B2

To speak with a strong regional accent, typically an Irish or Scottish one, or to fit a person or shoe with traditional heavy leather decorative patterns. As a verb, it describes the act of imbuing speech with a melodic lilt or wearing sturdy, perforated footwear.

broke

B2

To be without money; experiencing a complete lack of funds, often used to describe a temporary state before one receives a paycheck or more money. In a broader context, it can describe a business that has become insolvent or bankrupt.

bromine

B2

Bromine is a chemical element that appears as a dark reddish-brown liquid at room temperature and is part of the halogen group. It is known for its pungent odor and is primarily used in industrial chemicals, flame retardants, and as a disinfectant in swimming pools and spas.

bronchitis

B2

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs. People who have bronchitis often cough up thickened mucus, which can be discolored, and experience difficulty breathing.

brooch

B2

A brooch is a decorative piece of jewelry that is designed to be attached to a person's clothing. It features a pin on the back to fasten it securely to a garment, often serving as both an ornament and a functional clasp.

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