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Noxious: meaning, definitions and examples

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noxious

 

[ ˈnɒkʃəs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

chemicals

Harmful, poisonous, or very unpleasant. Noxious substances can cause harm or damage to living organisms.

Synonyms

harmful, poisonous, toxic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
noxious

When describing something that is physically harmful or destructive, especially to health or the environment. Typically used for gases, chemicals, or substances.

  • The factory was fined for releasing noxious fumes into the air
  • The noxious chemicals in the water made it unsafe to drink
harmful

In general contexts when referring to anything that can cause damage, injury, or negative effects. This word is suitable for both physical and abstract harms.

  • Smoking is harmful to your health
  • The harmful effects of the new policy were immediately apparent
toxic

Used to describe something that is poisonous or very harmful, often in a more severe or intense way. Can also be used metaphorically to describe bad relationships or environments.

  • They found toxic substances in the river
  • The toxic relationship was affecting her mental health
poisonous

When referring to substances or organisms that can cause illness or death when ingested or touched. Often used for plants, animals, or chemicals.

  • The plant is known to be highly poisonous if consumed
  • Many snakes have poisonous bites

Examples of usage

  • The factory released a cloud of noxious gases into the atmosphere.
  • Exposure to noxious fumes can lead to respiratory problems.
  • The noxious smell coming from the landfill made it difficult to breathe.
  • The noxious chemicals in the water contaminated the local ecosystem.
  • The noxious effects of the pesticide were evident in the dying plants.
Context #2 | Adjective

environment

Causing damage or harm to the environment. Noxious pollutants can have a negative impact on air, water, and soil quality.

Synonyms

harmful, polluting, toxic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
noxious

Used to describe something very unpleasant and harmful, especially to health. Often used in environmental or health-related contexts.

  • The factory was found to be emitting noxious gases.
  • The noxious fumes from the chemical spill made everyone evacuate the area.
polluting

Used to describe something that introduces contaminants into the environment, making it dirty or unsafe. Commonly used in discussions about environmental issues.

  • Cars are one of the major sources of polluting the air.
  • The company was fined for polluting the river.
toxic

Used to describe something poisonous and extremely harmful, especially when ingested or inhaled. Can also be used metaphorically to describe toxic relationships or behaviors.

  • The chemical is so toxic that even a small dose can be fatal.
  • Their toxic relationship was affecting their mental health.
harmful

A generic term used to indicate something that can cause damage or injury. It can be used in various contexts, including health, environment, and social settings.

  • Smoking is harmful to your lungs.
  • Watching too much TV can be harmful to your eyes.

Examples of usage

  • The noxious emissions from cars contribute to air pollution.
  • Dumping waste into rivers can result in the release of noxious chemicals.
  • The noxious waste from the factory contaminated the nearby river.
  • The noxious effects of deforestation are evident in the loss of biodiversity.
  • Noxious algae blooms can harm marine ecosystems.

Translations

Translations of the word "noxious" in other languages:

🇵🇹 nocivo

🇮🇳 हानिकारक

🇩🇪 schädlich

🇮🇩 berbahaya

🇺🇦 шкідливий

🇵🇱 szkodliwy

🇯🇵 有害な

🇫🇷 nocif

🇪🇸 nocivo

🇹🇷 zararlı

🇰🇷 해로운

🇸🇦 ضار

🇨🇿 škodlivý

🇸🇰 škodlivý

🇨🇳 有害的

🇸🇮 škodljiv

🇮🇸 skaðlegur

🇰🇿 зиянды

🇬🇪 მავნე

🇦🇿 zərərli

🇲🇽 nocivo

Etymology

The word 'noxious' originated from the Latin word 'noxious' meaning 'harmful' or 'injurious'. Over time, it evolved in English to describe substances or entities that are harmful, poisonous, or very unpleasant. The concept of noxious substances has been prevalent throughout history, especially in the context of environmental pollution and chemical hazards.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,601, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.