The English meaning of “concrete” can vary based on its usage as a noun, adjective, or verb:
As a noun:
- Material: A hard, strong construction material made by mixing cement, sand, gravel, and water, which hardens over time.
- Example: “The building is made of reinforced concrete.”
- Reality or Specifics: Something real and tangible, not abstract.
- Example: “We need concrete evidence to support the claim.”
As an adjective:
- Real or Definite: Existing in a physical or solid form; not abstract or theoretical.
- Example: “She provided concrete examples to explain her point.”
- Specific and Clear: Pertaining to something particular or detailed.
- Example: “Give me a concrete plan for the project.”
As a verb (less common):
- To solidify or make real: To make something tangible or specific.
- Example: “His ideas were concreted into a detailed proposal.”
Origin:
From Latin concretus, meaning “grown together” or “condensed.”