B2noun10K+

Exposure

UK /["/ɪkˈspəʊʒə(r)/"]/US /["/ɪkˈspəʊʒər/"]/

Definition

the state of being in a place or situation where there is no protection from something harmful or unpleasant

In simple words: The act of showing something or the state of being shown.

Examples

  • Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause serious skin damage.
  • Exposure to loud noises may lead to hearing loss.
  • The photographer adjusted the camera settings to increase the exposure of the photo.
  • After his exposure in the movie, he became very famous.
  • Exposure to new cultures can broaden your perspective.
  • The journalist’s exposure of corruption led to major political changes.
  • Exposure to cold temperatures without proper clothing can cause hypothermia.

Usage notes

Use 'exposure' in contexts related to visibility or revealing. It's appropriate in both academic and everyday conversation, but avoid overly casual situations.

Grammar pattern

exposure + to + object

Memory hint

Think 'expose' with a picture in mind – you reveal or show it.

Collocations

  • high
  • massive
  • maximum
  • receive
  • suffer
  • suffer from
  • exposure to
  • media
  • press
  • television
  • give somebody/​something
  • provide
  • gain
  • full
  • public

Synonyms

  • revelation
  • disclosure
  • unveiling
  • exhibition
  • showing

Antonyms

  • concealment
  • hiding
  • secrecy

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'exposures' as a plural form for multiple instances.
  • Misusing 'exposure' for situations unrelated to visibility or revealing.
  • Using 'exposure' without a clear object when it often requires one.