B2nounformal2K

Conservation

UK /["/ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/"]/US /["/ˌkɑːnsərˈveɪʃn/"]/

Definition

the protection of the natural environment

In simple words: The protection and careful use of natural resources.

Examples

Conservation of natural resources is essential for sustainable development.
The conservation of energy in the system follows the first law of thermodynamics.
Wildlife conservation efforts have helped protect endangered species from extinction.
Water conservation practices can save large amounts of water in agriculture.
The conservation of momentum is a key principle in physics.
Cultural conservation involves preserving historic buildings and artifacts for future generations.
Soil conservation techniques prevent erosion and maintain fertility of the land.

Usage notes

Use 'conservation' when discussing efforts to protect the environment, wildlife, or natural resources. Suitable in academic and professional contexts, but less common in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

conservation + of + object

Memory hint

Think of 'conserve' as in saving something valuable, like our planet.

Collocations

biodiversity
energy
environmental
body
group
movement
biodiversity
energy
environmental
body
group
movement
biodiversity
energy
environmental
body
group
movement

Synonyms

conservancy

Antonyms

exploitation
destruction
wastefulness

Common mistakes

'Conservation' confused with 'preservation' which has a slightly different meaning.
Using 'conservation' as a verb format instead of the noun.
Incorrectly pluralizing it to 'conservations'.