elemento
L'acqua è composta da due elementi: idrogeno e ossigeno.
Water is made up of two elements: hydrogen and oxygen.
A fundamental or essential constituent part of something abstract or concrete.
L'onestà è un elemento fondamentale della sua personalità.
Honesty is a fundamental element of his personality.
Il fuoco è uno degli elementi della natura.
Fire is one of the elements of nature.
In chemistry, 'elemento' refers to a pure substance consisting of atoms with the same number of protons.
A member of a group or class, especially a person in a particular situation.
Era l'elemento più vivace del gruppo.
He was the liveliest element in the group.
Often used in expressions like 'elemento di disturbo' (disturbing element) or 'elemento positivo' (positive person).
A component of a mathematical set or equation.
Gli elementi dell'insieme A sono 1, 2 e 3.
The elements of set A are 1, 2, and 3.
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Pro Tip
Common Mistakes
Avoid using 'elemento' to mean 'weather element' (use 'condizione meteorologica' instead). In chemistry, 'elemento' is the correct term for 'element'.
Gold Rule
When to Use 'Elemento'
Use 'elemento' for fundamental parts of a whole, whether physical (e.g., chemical elements) or abstract (e.g., personality traits). For groups of people, it often implies a distinct or notable member.
Word Origin
From Latin *elementum* (first principle, rudiment), of uncertain origin, possibly from *l-m-n* (alphabet letter) or *elemen* (rudimentary).
Usage Notes
In Italian, 'elemento' is widely used in both literal and figurative contexts. It can refer to physical substances, abstract qualities, or people within a group. The plural 'elementi' is common in technical and mathematical contexts.