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Overtourism

UK //ˈəʊ.və.tʊə.rɪ.zəm// US //ˈoʊ.vər.tʊr.ɪ.zəm// Pronunciation

Definition

The excessive or unsustainable influx of tourists to a destination.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Too many tourists visiting one place, causing problems.

Examples

• The city is suffering from overtourism, making daily life difficult for residents.
• Overtourism has led to increased pollution and waste in popular destinations.
• To combat overtourism, towns are implementing tourist caps during peak seasons.
• Many local businesses are closing due to the negative effects of overtourism.
• Experts warn that overtourism can ruin the very attractions that draw visitors.

Usage notes

Used in discussions about travel, environment, and urban planning. Mainly appropriate in academic or policy contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'over' + 'tour' – too many tours that overflow.

Collocations

• combat overtourism
• address overtourism
• mitigate overtourism

Synonyms

• mass tourism
• tourist overload
• tourist saturation

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'overpopulation' which refers to too many people in general.
• Using it to describe just crowded attractions without the negative impact.
• Assuming all tourism is negative without acknowledging its benefits.