Definition

Noun: - The contamination of water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater, by harmful substances or waste materials. This makes the water unsafe or unsuitable for its intended uses, such as drinking, swimming, or supporting aquatic life.

Usage

• The term "water pollution" is a non-count noun. It refers to the general phenomenon or state of water being polluted.
• It is commonly used in environmental, scientific, and policy discussions.
• Example:

Examples

• Noun:
  • Industrial waste is a major source of water pollution.
  • The government introduced new laws to reduce water pollution in the harbor.
  • Scientists are studying the effects of water pollution on coral reefs.

Advanced Usage

• "source of water pollution": identifies what causes the contamination.
  • Agricultural runoff is a significant source of water pollution.
• "level/degree/extent of water pollution": describes how severe the contamination is.
  • Researchers measured the extent of water pollution downstream from the city.

Variants and Related Words

• Pollute (verb): To make water or another substance dirty or harmful.
  • Chemicals from the farm polluted the stream.
• Pollutant (noun): A substance that causes pollution.
  • Nitrates are common water pollutants.
• Water quality (noun phrase): The condition of water, including its cleanliness.
  • The water quality in the lake has improved.

Synonyms

• Contamination of water
• Water contamination

Related Phrases

• Marine pollution: Specifically refers to pollution of sea water.
  • Plastic waste is a growing problem for marine pollution.
• Groundwater pollution: Specifically refers to pollution of water under the earth's surface.
  • The chemical spill led to groundwater pollution.

Notes

• "Water pollution" is a specific type of environmental pollution. Other types include air pollution and soil pollution.
• The harmful substances that cause water pollution are called pollutants. Common pollutants include chemicals, trash, bacteria, and excess nutrients.

Noun

1. pollution of the water in rivers and lakes