Disposability: meaning, definitions and examples

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disposability

 

[ dɪˌspəʊzəˈbɪlɪti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in modern society

The quality of being easily replaced or discarded; the tendency for items, resources, or people to be considered disposable.

Synonyms

discardability, disposableness, replaceability.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disposability

Used to describe items intended for one-time use or that can be easily discarded after use. Often applied to everyday consumer products.

  • The disposability of plastic bags has generated environmental concerns.
  • This razor is designed for disposability.
replaceability

Focuses on the ability to be replaced easily or the degree to which something is replaceable. Often used in contexts like employment, technology, and machinery.

  • Many companies value the replaceability of their equipment.
  • The replaceability of parts ensures minimal downtime in case of failure.
disposableness

Often used to emphasize the temporary nature or lack of durability of an item. It can have a slightly negative connotation when highlighting the flimsy or non-durable aspect.

  • The disposableness of these utensils makes them unsuitable for long-term use.
  • Some critics argue that the disposableness of fashion trends promotes waste.
discardability

Refers to the ease with which something can be discarded or thrown away. Commonly used in product design and waste management contexts.

  • The discardability of single-use packaging contributes to large amounts of waste.
  • The product's discardability is a key feature for consumers seeking convenience.

Examples of usage

  • Consumer culture promotes disposability over durability.
  • Fast fashion has contributed to the disposability of clothing.
  • The throwaway mentality leads to increased disposability of products.
Context #2 | Noun

in environmental context

The state or condition of being capable of being thrown away or recycled with minimal impact on the environment.

Synonyms

recyclability, reusability, sustainability.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disposability

Likely a duplicate, but the same context applies as above.

  • The disposability of paper cups makes them convenient for events
recyclability

This word is appropriate when discussing the ability to recycle a product or material. It is often used in environmental discussions and product marketing highlighting eco-friendliness.

  • The recyclability of aluminum cans reduces waste in landfills
sustainability

This word is used in a broader context to talk about practices and products that are designed to meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It's often used in environmental and social responsibility contexts.

  • Sustainability is key in developing long-term environmental policies
reusability

Use this term when referring to items that can be used multiple times. It is relevant in discussions about sustainability and reducing waste.

  • The reusability of cloth bags helps decrease plastic waste

Examples of usage

  • Reducing plastic disposability is crucial for environmental sustainability.
  • Biodegradable materials help reduce the disposability of waste.
  • Promoting reusable products can reduce disposability rates.

Translations

Translations of the word "disposability" in other languages:

🇵🇹 descartabilidade

🇮🇳 निष्पादनशीलता

🇩🇪 Wegwerfcharakter

🇮🇩 keterbuangan

🇺🇦 одноразовість

🇵🇱 jednorazowość

🇯🇵 使い捨て性

🇫🇷 jetabilité

🇪🇸 desechabilidad

🇹🇷 tek kullanımlık

🇰🇷 일회용성

🇸🇦 القابلية للتصرف

🇨🇿 jednorázovost

🇸🇰 jednorázovosť

🇨🇳 一次性

🇸🇮 enkratna uporaba

🇮🇸 einnota

🇰🇿 бір рет қолданылатын

🇬🇪 ერთჯერადი გამოყენების უნარი

🇦🇿 bir dəfəlik istifadə

🇲🇽 desechabilidad

Etymology

The concept of disposability emerged in the mid-20th century with the rise of mass production and consumer culture. It reflects a shift towards convenience and efficiency, often at the expense of sustainability. The disposable mindset has become prevalent in various industries, leading to environmental concerns due to increased waste generation. Efforts towards reducing disposability and promoting sustainable practices have gained momentum in recent years.

See also: disposable, disposableness, disposal, disposed, disposer, disposing, dispossession, indisposition, predisposition.