Final answer:
The word 'matter' can mean a substance with mass and volume in a scientific context or signify importance in everyday language.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the word matter, it is important to understand its context to grasp its meaning fully. In the scientific sense, matter refers to any substance that has mass and occupies space. This includes solids, liquids, and gases, as well as atoms and molecules that constitute various forms of substances. In everyday language, however, the term may convey importance or significance.
Definitions of Matter
Matter (Scientific Context):
Example Sentence: What is this gooey matter on the table?
Definition: A substance, possibly a mixture or a physical state of a substance, that is occupying physical space and has mass.
Matter (Significance Context):
Example Sentence: Please vote! Your opinions matter.
Definition: To be of importance or to have significance in a given context.