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air pollution

air pollution

26 2.6
Harmful gases, smoke, and small particles in the air that can damage health or nature
  • noun
  • /ɛr pəˈluːʃən/
translation icon : contaminación del aire
  • Researchers in the United States have taken a look at the world's efforts to reduce air pollution, and their findings are a rare case of good news.
  • indoor air pollution
  • reduce air pollution
  • sources of air pollution

Small town in Ireland proves that not all air pollution is bad.

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Examples

  • There are more than enough worldwide sources of air pollution of this type.

    Academic text (2011)
  • In most air pollution studies, communities with different air pollution levels are compared.

    Academic text (1993)
  • Let's start looking at the air pollution problems now.

  • Do we start handling air pollution control in different ways?

  • The results should not be taken to mean that air pollution has no negative impacts on health.

    Academic text (1993)
  • In particular, air pollution and degradation of air quality is a problem.

  • But it is worth pointing out that in northern China, life expectancy has gone down five and a half years because of air pollution.

  • The impact of smoke-free laws on indoor air pollution has been observed.

    Academic text (2008)
  • Environmentally, the European occupation has meant soil degradation, water and air pollution, and the destruction of living species.

    Academic text (1990)
  • Air pollution can cause serious health issues, including respiratory diseases and heart problems.

Synonyms

pollution
vsair pollution
255 2.7

Harmful substances in the air, water, or soil that damage health and nature

is limited to harmful substances found in the atmosphere rather than all environments

Antonyms

25 3.1

The state of having no dirt or other things mixed in

How Polluted

smog
38 2.0
air pollution
26 2.6
fresh air
143 1.0

Surface Forms

air pollution singular

Morphology

air + pollution

The meaning 'the presence of harmful substances in the air' is directly and compositionally derived from 'air' (the atmosphere) + 'pollution' (presence of harmful substances). This noun‑noun compound follows a transparent, productive pattern found across languages, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents will readily understand the MWE.

Etymology

Air pollution gives a clear picture: smoke, dust, and chemicals make the air 'dirty'. So, it means 'harmful substances in the air' that can hurt people and nature.