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Glite Dictionary
point source

point source

1 6.8
A single spot where pollution or radiation comes from, for example a factory
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : fuente puntual
  • While the biofilter offers "end of pipe" control, point sources of odors also have been targeted.
  • point source pollution
  • point source discharges
  • point source contamination

Examples

  • NPDES is designed to improve water quality and quantity by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants into surrounding waters.

    Academic text (2003)

  • Sewage wastes and industrial and household toxins account for some direct or point source pollution.

    Academic text (1998)

  • However, the political will and funds available to control point sources are still limited in many regions of the world.

    Academic text (2008)

  • Thus, this type of pollution is more difficult to regulate and control than point sources.

    Academic text (2008)

  • Therefore, where there is political will and available funds, pollution emitted from point sources is now under control.

    Academic text (2008)

  • Many of the locations used in the study had point source pollution from human sewage.

    Academic text (1994)

  • Historically, chlor-alkali plants were point-source mercury discharge sources, but these plants have been closed.

    Academic text (2012)

  • In 1999-2000, there were 1,235 cases of point-source groundwater contamination.

    Academic text (2005)

  • The factory was identified as a significant point source of toxic waste in the river.

  • Local authorities are monitoring each point source of pollution to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Synonyms

source
vspoint source
∞ 2.6

A place or thing where something comes from

is a specific concentrated spot not a broad or abstract starting place
origin
vspoint source
228 2.7

The place where something begins, for example a country

is a single concentrated emitting spot rather than a general beginning

How Localized

point source
  • Specialized
1 6.8
radiating
4.2
diffuse
8 6.4

Surface Forms

point source singular
point sources plural

Morphology

point + source

The meaning is directly derivable from combining 'point' (a specific position) with 'source' (origin), yielding a source located at a single, identifiable spot. This noun+noun composition follows regular English compounding patterns and has clear parallels in other languages, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents can infer the MWE's meaning.

Etymology

Point source comes from the simple image of one single point or source that gives off smoke or light, like a pipe or a lamp. That's why we use it to mean 'a single, identifiable place that produces pollution or radiation'.