D
Dicread
HomeDictionaryOoxygen

oxygen

Oxygen is an uncountable noun. This means you do not usually say "oxygens" when talking about the gas in general. When you want to count it, use a measuring word like "a tank of oxygen" or "a dose of oxygen." In casual conversation, people sometimes use "oxygen" metaphorically to describe something that gives them energy or life (e.g., "Music is my oxygen").

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, David is procrastinating in his office while Victoria is in a high-stakes board meeting.
David

Just circling back on the project. I think we need more oxygen for these ideas to really breathe.

David
Victoria
Victoria

Stop using buzzwords and just send the actual data, David.

💡
David uses 'oxygen' metaphorically to mean space or resources for growth, employing corporate jargon ('circling back') to sound visionary. Victoria immediately shuts down the fluff, highlighting their power dynamic.

Meanings

noun

A colorless, odorless reactive gas, the chemical element of atomic number 8 and chemical symbol O, essential for respiration in most living organisms and as a supporter of combustion.

"The diver carried a tank of oxygen to breathe underwater."

Last Updated: May 23, 2026Report an Error