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Air pollution

UK //ɛə ˌpəʊˈluːʃən//US //ɛr ˌpəˈluːʃən//

Definition

The presence of harmful substances in the air.

In simple words: Dirty air that can harm health.

Examples

  • Air pollution is a major concern in urban areas.
  • Reducing air pollution can improve public health significantly.
  • Governments worldwide are implementing laws to combat air pollution.
  • Air pollution levels often rise during the winter months.

Usage notes

Use 'air pollution' in discussions about environmental issues. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, but may be avoided in casual chats.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun phrase

Memory hint

Think of 'air' as the invisible gas around us and 'pollution' as garbage in it.

Collocations

  • reduce air pollution
  • combat air pollution
  • monitor air pollution
  • sources of air pollution

Synonyms

  • air contamination
  • atmospheric pollution
  • airborne pollutants

Common mistakes

  • 'Air pollutions' is incorrect; it should be singular.
  • Confusing it with 'air quality' which refers to the cleanliness of the air.
  • Using 'pollution' alone without specifying 'air' when discussing this specific issue.