Waste Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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waste
[weɪst ]
Definitions
environment
Unwanted or unusable materials, substances, or by-products, particularly those that are harmful to the environment.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| waste |
Refers to unwanted or unusable materials, also includes the inefficient use of resources. Commonly used in environmental, industrial, and personal contexts.
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| garbage |
Mainly used in American English, refers specifically to household waste including leftover food and packaging.
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| rubbish |
Commonly used in British English, it refers to all sorts of waste or useless items, including household waste and broken objects.
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| trash |
Used in American English, often to refer to general waste and unwanted items. It can also carry a negative connotation when referring to something or someone considered worthless.
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Examples of usage
- Recycling helps reduce waste and protect the environment.
- Improper disposal of waste can lead to pollution of the land and water sources.
resources
To use or expend carelessly, extravagantly, or to no purpose.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| waste |
Use when referring to something being used carelessly or without purpose, resulting in its loss. It often has a negative connotation.
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| squander |
Use when referring to wasting something valuable, often money or opportunities, in a reckless or foolish manner. It often implies missed potential or regret.
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| misuse |
Use when something is being used incorrectly or in a way that was not intended, often resulting in harm or inefficiency. It has a negative connotation.
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| consume |
Use when talking about using resources or eating/drinking something. It's neutral and very common in both everyday and technical language.
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Examples of usage
- Try not to waste water by leaving the tap running.
- He wasted his inheritance on frivolous purchases.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Environmental Impact
- Globally, about 1/3 of all food produced is wasted, contributing to hunger and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Reducing waste can lead to major environmental benefits, like decreasing pollution and conserving resources.
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, wastefulness is seen as a negative trait and is often associated with greed or lack of care.
- Some indigenous communities have traditional practices focused on minimizing waste and respecting the Earth.
Psychology
- People often hold onto items they perceive as useful due to the 'sunk cost fallacy', leading them to waste valuable space.
- The concept of 'perceived waste' influences consumer behavior; people may discard items more readily if they believe they are no longer valuable.
Economics
- The concept of waste is crucial in economics, influencing discussions around resource allocation and efficiency.
- In terms of productivity, minimizing waste can significantly improve a company's bottom line and sustainability efforts.
Origin of 'waste'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'waste' comes from the Old French 'gaspiller', meaning to squander or waste.
- It has roots in the Latin word 'vastare', which means to lay waste or make empty, connecting to the idea of something being used up or abandoned.
The word 'waste' originated from the Old English term 'wæstan', meaning 'desolate, barren, empty'. Over time, its meaning evolved to include the concept of unused or discarded materials. The modern usage of 'waste' reflects the growing concern for environmental sustainability and resource management.