Contamination: meaning, definitions and examples

Contamination is used to describe the presence of harmful or unwanted substances in something. It is often used in science, medical, and environmental contexts.

• The factory was shut down due to water contamination
• The laboratory tests revealed contamination in the food samples

Pollution is used to describe the introduction of harmful substances or products into the environment. It is commonly discussed in environmental science and public health.

• Air pollution in the city has reached dangerous levels
• Efforts are being made to reduce ocean pollution caused by plastic waste

Impurity refers to substances that are not pure, often being unwanted or drawing away from perfect condition. It is used in contexts like chemical compounds, metals, or even abstractly for concepts.

• Gold is often mixed with impurities such as copper
• The philosopher spoke of moral impurities clouding human judgment

Tainting is used to describe the act of contaminating or corrupting something, often giving it a negative connotation. It is used in both literal and figurative contexts.

• Rumors of corruption tainted the politician's reputation
• The meat was tainted, making it unsafe for consumption

Used to describe something that becomes dirty, impure, or harmful due to contact with a contaminant, often in environmental or food safety contexts.

• The factory was closed due to water contamination
• Be careful with this dish to avoid contamination

Primarily used in medical or epidemiological contexts to describe the spread of disease from one person to another, often carrying a sense of panic or fear.

• The contagion spread quickly through the hospital
• People are worried about the potential contagion

When referring to the presence of harmful or unwanted substances in a place or thing. This term is commonly used in environmental, health, and safety contexts.

• The contamination of the river has made it unsafe for swimming.
• Food contamination can lead to serious health issues.

Refers to unwanted substances present in a material. It is commonly used in scientific, industrial, and quality control contexts.

• The disposal process removes impurities from the metal.
• Pharmaceutical companies aim to produce drugs with minimal impurities.

Used when discussing the act of adding inferior substances to a product, often for economic gain. It has a negative connotation, especially in relation to food and medicine.

• The adulteration of olive oil with cheaper oils is illegal.
• Adulteration of drugs can have dangerous consequences for patients.

Implies that something has been spoiled or ruined, often emotionally or morally. It can be used both literally and metaphorically.

• The scandal led to the tainting of his reputation.
• The addition of chlorine to the water has resulted in its tainting.