# AAU

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/aau
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Senses

### 1. carbon emission credit

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a unit used in international law that allows a country to release a certain amount of greenhouse gases.

For teachers: an allowance to emit one metric tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent under the Kyoto Protocol. Usually plural in legal and environmental contexts.

- The government decided to sell its extra AAU credits to another country.
- Under the terms of the Kyoto Protocol, countries with a surplus of assigned amount units (AAUs) may trade them to nations exceeding their emission targets.

Usage: Often used in the plural form (AAUs) when discussing trade or national accounts.

### 2. Amateur Athletic Union

noun · CEFR B2 · American English

a large organization in the United States that organizes sports for young people and non-professionals.

For teachers: a non-profit multi-sport organization in the United States dedicated to the promotion and development of amateur sports and physical fitness programs.

- Many top basketball players start their careers playing in AAU tournaments.
- The athlete's performance in the national AAU championships attracted significant interest from university scouts across the country.

Usage: Commonly used as a modifier before other nouns, such as 'AAU basketball' or 'AAU circuit'.

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