B1verb 2K

Pollute

UK //pəˈluːt// US //pəˈluːt// Pronunciation

Definition

To make air, water, or land dirty or harmful by substances.

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In simple words: To make something dirty or harmful.

Examples

• Factories frequently pollute the air with harmful emissions.
• If we continue to pollute our rivers, wildlife will suffer.
• The campaign aims to reduce plastic pollution that pollutes the oceans.
• Cars pollute the environment, contributing to climate change.
• We need to find ways to pollute less and recycle more.

Usage notes

Use in contexts related to environmental harm. Common in discussions about air, water, and land contamination. Generally used in formal contexts when discussing laws or regulations.

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Grammar pattern

pollute + object

Memory hint

Think of 'pollute' as 'pull out' the clean parts from nature.

Collocations

• pollute the environment
• pollute the air
• pollute the water

Synonyms

• contaminate
• taint
• dirty
• pollution

Antonyms

• purify
• clean

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'contaminate' - pollution is broader than just contamination.
• Incorrect verb form - using 'pollution' instead of 'pollute' as a verb.