Definition

1. Noun:
   • The contamination of the atmosphere by harmful substances: "Air pollution" refers to the presence of chemicals, particles, or biological materials in the air that cause harm or discomfort to living organisms or damage the natural environment.

Usage

• "Air pollution" is used as a non-count noun to describe the general condition of a polluted atmosphere.
• It is commonly discussed in contexts of environmental science, public health, policy, and urban living.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The city has serious problems with air pollution.
  • Air pollution from vehicle exhaust is a major concern.
  • New regulations aim to control industrial air pollution.

Advanced Usage

• "to combat/tackle/fight air pollution": to take action to reduce it.
  • The government launched a new initiative to combat air pollution.
• "levels of air pollution": a measurement of its severity.
  • The levels of air pollution exceeded safe limits today.

Variants and Related Words

• Pollutant (n): a specific substance that causes pollution.
  • Carbon monoxide is a dangerous air pollutant.
• Air quality (n): a description of the condition of the air, which is affected by pollution.
  • The air quality index was poor due to smog.

Synonyms

• Atmospheric contamination: a more formal term for air pollution.
• Smog: a specific type of visible air pollution, often a mixture of smoke and fog.

Related Phrases

• Indoor air pollution: contamination of air inside buildings.
  • Using certain cleaning products can contribute to indoor air pollution.

Related Idioms

• (To be) under a cloud (of pollution/smog): to be in an area with very bad air pollution. (Note: This is an extension of the idiom's typical metaphorical use).
  • The industrial valley often lies under a cloud of smog.

Noun

1. pollution of the atmosphere
   • air pollution reduced the visibility