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Environmental Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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environmental

[ษชnหŒvaษชrษ™nหˆment(ษ™)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

protection

Relating to the natural world and the impact of human activity on its condition.

Synonyms

ecological, environment-friendly, green.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
environmental

Used when referring to issues, policies, or actions related to the natural world and its preservation. Often used in scientific, technical, or policy-oriented contexts.

  • The company has implemented several environmental policies to reduce pollution.
  • Environmental concerns have led to new regulations on waste management.
ecological

Used when specifically talking about the relationships between living organisms, including humans, and their physical surroundings. It is often used in scientific or educational contexts.

  • The ecological impact of deforestation can be devastating to wildlife.
  • Students are studying the ecological balance within the rainforest ecosystem.
green

Informally used to refer to practices, products, or policies that are good for the environment. Commonly used in marketing, advocacy, and everyday conversation.

  • We're trying to go green by reducing our energy consumption.
  • Green technologies are being developed to combat climate change.
environment-friendly

Used to describe products, actions, or practices that do not harm the environment. Often used in marketing or everyday conversation.

  • We need to switch to environment-friendly cleaning products.
  • This car is an environment-friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered vehicles.

Examples of usage

  • Environmental protection is crucial for the preservation of our planet.
  • She is passionate about environmental issues.
Context #2 | Noun

study

The study of the natural world and the impact of human activity on its condition.

Synonyms

conservation, ecology, environmental science.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
environmental

Use this word when discussing anything related to the natural world or surroundings, particularly in the context of human impact or protection efforts.

  • The company adopted several environmental policies to reduce its carbon footprint.
  • There are many environmental challenges that need to be addressed, such as pollution and climate change.
ecology

Use this term when discussing the relationships between living organisms, including humans, and their environment. It often involves scientific study.

  • She is studying ecology to better understand the interactions within ecosystems.
  • Ecology provides insights into how different species coexist in a shared habitat.
conservation

This word is most suitable when referring to the act of preserving, protecting, or restoring natural environments, wildlife, or resources.

  • Conservation efforts are crucial to protecting endangered species.
  • Water conservation techniques can help reduce the strain on our natural resources.
environmental science

This phrase is appropriate when referring to the interdisciplinary study that combines aspects of biology, chemistry, physics, and geography to understand environmental issues and solutions.

  • He majored in environmental science to pursue a career in solving environmental problems.
  • Environmental science courses cover a wide range of topics from pollution control to sustainable development.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to major in environmental studies at university.
  • The government is investing in environmental research.
Context #3 | Noun

surroundings

The surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates.

Synonyms

atmosphere, context, setting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
environmental

Similar description as before, focusing on nature and ecosystems.

  • Companies need to consider the environmental impact of their products.
  • She is studying environmental science at university.
setting

Used to describe the time and place in which the events of a story or situation occur.

  • The setting of the novel is a small village in the 19th century.
  • The beach was a perfect setting for the wedding.
atmosphere

Used to describe the mood or feeling in a specific place or situation, as well as the layer of gases surrounding Earth.

  • The cozy cafรฉ had a warm and inviting atmosphere.
  • The Earth's atmosphere is crucial for maintaining our climate.
context

Used to describe the circumstances or facts that surround a particular event, situation, or word, giving it meaning.

  • Understanding the historical context can help explain current events.
  • The word 'bark' can mean different things depending on the context.

Examples of usage

  • He grew up in a rural environmental.
  • The company aims to create a positive work environment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field, blending biology, geology, and chemistry to understand how natural systems operate.
  • The Earth's atmosphere has changed significantly due to human activity, impacting climate patterns through pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, environmental protection is a key aspect of spirituality, where nature is often viewed as sacred and deserving of respect.
  • Environmental movements have led to global events like Earth Day, which raises awareness for ecological issues and promotes sustainability.

Legislation

  • The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established in 1970 to oversee and enforce regulations aimed at protecting the environment.
  • Various international treaties, like the Paris Agreement, emphasize the importance of global cooperation in combating climate change.

Pop Culture

  • Documentaries like 'Our Planet' and 'Chasing Ice' have raised awareness about environmental issues through stunning visuals and storytelling.
  • Celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Greta Thunberg have become prominent advocates for environmental causes, inspiring millions to take action.

Origin of 'environmental'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'environment' comes from the French 'environner', meaning 'to surround', which hints at the things that surround us.
  • The suffix '-al' is often used in English to form adjectives, indicating a connection to something, like 'environmental' is connected to the environment.

The word 'environmental' originated from the French word 'environnement' in the mid-19th century, which means 'surrounding conditions or circumstances.' It gained popularity in the 20th century with the rise of environmental awareness and movements focused on protecting the natural world from human impact. Today, 'environmental' is commonly used in discussions about sustainability, conservation, and the relationship between humans and their surroundings.

See also: environment, environmentalism, environmentalist, environments.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,430, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.