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Deforestation

UK //ˌdiːˌfɔːrɪˈsteɪʃən// US //ˌdiːfɔːrɪˈsteɪʃən// Pronunciation

Definition

The act of clearing forests or trees on a large scale.

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In simple words: Cutting down trees in a forest.

Examples

• Deforestation is leading to severe loss of biodiversity.
• The government has implemented laws to combat deforestation.
• The effects of deforestation can be seen worldwide.

Usage notes

Commonly used in environmental discussions. Appropriate in academic and journalistic contexts but may be too technical for casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'deforest' as 'de-planting' trees from a forest.

Collocations

• solve deforestation
• combat deforestation
• prevent deforestation
• impact of deforestation
• deforestation rates

Synonyms

• tree removal
• logging
• land clearing
• clear-cutting
• deforestation management

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'deforested' which refers to an area already lost.
• Using 'deforestation' in a plural form.
• Mistaking it for desertification, which is a different process.