Definition

Noun: A policy or set of measures aimed at regulating the rate of growth of a human population. This often refers to government programs designed to influence population size, typically to limit growth.

Usage

The term "population control" is used to describe organized efforts, often at a national or societal level, to manage demographic trends. It is a formal term commonly found in discussions of public policy, sociology, and environmental studies.

Examples

• The country implemented strict population control policies to manage its rapid growth.
• Debates about population control often involve ethical considerations.
• Effective population control can be a key factor in sustainable development.

Advanced Usage

• "to advocate for population control": to publicly support policies aimed at managing population growth.
  • Some environmental groups advocate for population control to reduce pressure on natural resources.

Variants and Related Words

• Population planning (n): A related, often less contentious term focusing on providing family planning services and education to achieve desired family size, rather than imposing limits.
  • The clinic focuses on population planning through education and access to contraception.

Synonyms

• Birth control (Note: This synonym specifically refers to methods to prevent pregnancy, which is a tool of population control, but is not identical in scope. "Birth control" is individual-focused, while "population control" is policy-focused.)
• Family planning (See note under "Variants and Related Words").

Related Phrases

• "program of population control": a specific, organized initiative by an authority.
  • The government launched a comprehensive program of population control.

Noun

1. control over the growth of population; a government program