Wasting: meaning, definitions and examples

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wasting

 

[ˈweΙͺstΙͺΕ‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

time loss

Wasting refers to the act of using something inefficiently or carelessly. It can pertain to time, resources, or energy that could have been utilized more effectively. This term often implies a sense of regret over the lost value.

Synonyms

dissipating, misusing, squandering.

Examples of usage

  • He is wasting time instead of studying.
  • Don't waste your energy on things that don't matter.
  • They wasted a lot of money on unnecessary items.
Context #2 | Verb

resource depletion

Wasting can also refer to the depletion or reduction of something valuable, particularly in the context of natural resources or assets. This usage often highlights environmental concerns related to overconsumption.

Synonyms

consuming, depleting, exhausting.

Examples of usage

  • We should avoid wasting water during the drought.
  • The factory was criticized for wasting resources.
  • Wasting food is a major global issue.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'waste' comes from the Old French word 'wastier', which means to waste or squander.
  • Historically, the concept evolved in the Middle Ages to encompass not just physical waste but also time and effort.
  • Wasting can refer to both material goods and intangible resources, illustrating a wide range of human behavior.

Environmental Impact

  • Food waste is a significant issue; nearly a third of all food produced globally is wasted every year.
  • Wasting resources contributes to environmental degradation, affecting biodiversity and sustainability.
  • In the U.S., waste management is a multi-billion dollar industry, reflecting the massive scale of resource mismanagement.

Psychology

  • The feeling of wasting time can lead to anxiety and stress, influencing overall mental well-being.
  • Research suggests that evaluating how we use time can improve personal satisfaction and life quality.
  • Adaptive behavior changes can reduce the perception of wasting time, fostering both productivity and fulfillment.

Pop Culture

  • Songs like 'Wasting My Young Years' by London Grammar explore themes of regret and the passage of time.
  • The concept of wasting often appears in films as a metaphor for lost opportunities and the quest for meaning.
  • Social media trends sometimes promote a culture of 'living in the moment,' countering the feeling of wasting life.

Health

  • In medical terms, 'wasting' can refer to weight loss and muscle decline, often linked to chronic disease.
  • The phrase 'wasting away' evokes a sense of diminishing health, commonly seen in discussions about eating disorders.
  • Strategies to combat health-related wasting include nutritious diets and physical therapies aimed at preserving strength.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,694 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.