B1noun1K

Waste

UK /["/weɪst/"]/US /["/weɪst/"]/

Definition

the act of using something in a careless or unnecessary way, causing it to be lost or destroyed

In simple words: to use something in a way that is not effective or useful

Examples

  • We should try to reduce waste by recycling more often.
  • The waste from the factory was harmful to the environment.
  • Don't waste your time on unimportant tasks.
  • It's a waste of resources to leave the lights on in unused rooms.
  • She felt it was a waste of energy to argue about trivial matters.

Usage notes

Used in contexts where resources, time, or opportunities are not used efficiently. Less appropriate in formal writing unless discussing economics or environmental issues.

Grammar pattern

waste + object

Memory hint

Think of 'wasting' food - imagine a plate of food being thrown away.

Collocations

  • absolute
  • complete
  • total
  • go to
  • cause
  • avoid
  • waste of
  • absolute
  • complete
  • total
  • go to
  • cause
  • avoid
  • waste of
  • dangerous
  • harmful
  • hazardous
  • create
  • generate
  • produce
  • contaminate something
  • pollute something
  • collection
  • disposal
  • incineration
  • dangerous
  • harmful
  • hazardous
  • create
  • generate
  • produce
  • contaminate something
  • pollute something
  • collection
  • disposal
  • incineration
  • desert
  • frozen
  • icy

Synonyms

  • squander
  • misuse
  • deplete
  • fritter away
  • dissipate

Antonyms

  • conserve
  • save
  • utilize

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'waist' - the body part
  • Using 'waste' as a noun without context, forgetting it can also be a verb
  • Saying 'wasting of' instead of just 'wasting'