Word
filtration
Phoneticsfil·tra·tion, stress on the second syllable
US/fɪɫˈtɹeɪʃən/
UK/fɪltɹˈeɪʃən/
Countable & uncountable Science
Definition
n. the process of passing a liquid or gas through a special material to remove dirt or solid pieces. You use this to make water clean or to separate different materials.
n. the mechanical or physical operation used for the separation of solids from fluids by interposing a medium through which only the fluid can pass. Often used in industrial, chemical, or biological contexts.
Examples
“The water needs filtration before it is safe to drink.”
“The city's new filtration plant removes microscopic pollutants from the reservoir to ensure high-quality tap water.”
“Advanced membrane filtration techniques allow for the desalination of seawater, providing a critical source of potable water in arid coastal regions where natural springs are scarce.”
Examples
simple
“The water needs filtration before it is safe to drink.”
contextual
“The city's new filtration plant removes microscopic pollutants from the reservoir to ensure high-quality tap water.”
complex
“Advanced membrane filtration techniques allow for the desalination of seawater, providing a critical source of potable water in arid coastal regions where natural springs are scarce.”
Usage
Uncountable when referring to the general process; countable when referring to a specific method or instance of the process.
Real-World Examples
“In very dry air, fine particles can stay suspended longer and become more electrostatically "sticky," while higher humidity can change how particles clump, settle and move through a filtration system.” “Filtration can remove protozoa but must be designed and operated correctly.” Etymology
From French filtration.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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