Environment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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environment
[ษชnหvaษชrษnmษnt ]
Definitions
natural world
The surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates.
Synonyms
ecosystem, habitat, surroundings.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| environment |
Use this word to talk about the conditions around a person or thing, whether it's natural or man-made. It can refer to physical, social, or cultural elements.
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| surroundings |
Use this word to describe the immediate area around a person, place, or thing. It can be used in a general sense and is often less formal.
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| habitat |
This word is best suited for talking about the natural home or environment where a specific animal or plant lives.
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| ecosystem |
Use this term when discussing a biological community and its interactions with the physical environment. Often used in scientific or ecological contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The panda's natural environment is the bamboo forest.
- We need to protect the environment for future generations.
working conditions
The surroundings or conditions in which a person, machine, or organization operates.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| environment |
Used when talking about the natural world or conditions affecting life on Earth. Often involved in discussions about ecology, pollution, and conservation.
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| setting |
Commonly used to describe the time and place in which the events of a book, movie, or play take place. Can also refer to the physical surroundings where something happens.
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| atmosphere |
Refers to the mood or feeling in a particular place or situation. Frequently used in social settings, literature, or to describe the vibe of an event.
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| milieu |
Often used in more sophisticated or academic contexts to describe the social environment, background, or cultural setting in which something occurs. Less common in everyday speech.
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Examples of usage
- A healthy work environment is important for employee productivity.
- The office environment was noisy and distracting.
political context
The political, social, and economic context in which something is situated.
Synonyms
background, context, situation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| environment |
Use this word when talking about the natural world, surroundings, or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates. It can also refer to the setting or conditions of a particular activity.
|
| context |
This word is best used when discussing the circumstances or facts surrounding a particular event, statement, or idea to give it clearer meaning.
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| situation |
Use this word to describe a set of circumstances in which one finds themselves, often used to discuss a problem or a state of affairs.
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| background |
This word is suitable for describing a person's education, experience, or the historical context leading to a current situation. It can also refer to the part of a scene that's farthest from the viewer.
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Examples of usage
- The business thrived in a stable environment.
- The company faced challenges due to the uncertain economic environment.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In biology, the environment includes all living and non-living things that interact with an organism.
- The term is crucial in ecology, where it's studied how organisms adapt to and interact with their environments.
- Climate change significantly impacts various environments, altering habitats and affecting species survival.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have unique relationships with their environments, influencing art, philosophy, and lifestyle.
- Indigenous peoples often view the environment as a living entity that deserves respect and care.
- Environmental themes in literature often reflect human-nature relationships, showcasing the impact of industrialization.
Psychology
- Our environments can greatly influence mood and behavior, with natural spaces often promoting well-being.
- Studies show that exposure to greenery can reduce stress and improve focus and creativity.
- Environmental psychology explores how we interact with our surroundings, shaping architectural and urban design.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Avatar' emphasize the beauty of alien environments and the importance of protecting them.
- Environmentalism has become a popular theme in music, inspiring songs that advocate for planet protection.
- Books focusing on dystopian environments, like 'The Hunger Games', illustrate the consequences of environmental neglect.
Origin of 'environment'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'environner', meaning โto encircle or surroundโ.
- It first appeared in English around the late 14th century, primarily referring to physical surroundings.
- Over time, the term evolved to include socio-cultural and psychological aspects of our surroundings.
The word 'environment' originated from the French word 'environnement', which came from 'environner' meaning 'to encircle'. The term began to be used in English in the mid-19th century with a focus on the natural surroundings of living organisms. Over time, the concept of environment has expanded to include various contexts such as working conditions, social settings, and political landscapes. Today, environmental awareness and protection have become crucial global issues.
See also: environmental, environmentalism, environmentalist, environments.