Synonyms for

Pollution

Verb / pʌˈlu:ʃʌn / Another word for pollution — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Pollution is the presence or introduction into the environment of substances or things that have harmful or poisonous effects.

Synonyms & similar words

decontamination befoulment defilement contamination contamination toxicity polluting poisoning tainting defilement fouling adulteration impurity degradation spoiling corruption venom blight infection smog fumes smoke exhaust emissions

Synonyms by register

Formal

contamination defilement adulteration tainting

Informal

grubbiness muck gunk filth

Literary

blight stain fouling

Antonyms

purity cleanliness sanitation pristineness wholesomeness uncontamination

Common collocations

  • air pollution
  • water pollution
  • noise pollution
  • light pollution
  • industrial pollution
  • environmental pollution
  • reduce pollution
  • combat pollution

Word family

noun pollution
verb pollute
adjective polluted
adverb pollutingly

Usage note

Pollution refers to the introduction of harmful substances or products into the environment. It is often used in the context of environmental damage.

Example sentences

  1. The pollution from the factory was making the air dirty.
  2. The pollution in the water was harming the fish and plants.
  3. We need to reduce our pollution to protect the environment.
  4. Pollution from cars can cause health problems.
  5. The pollution in the city was making it hard to breathe.

Quotes

  • Pollution is nothing but the resources we are not harvesting. We allow them to disperse because we've been ignorant of their value.
  • Pollution is the forerunner of perdition.
  • The only way forward, if we are going to improve the quality of the environment, is to get everybody involved.

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