# global warming

CEFR B1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/global-warming
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

the slow increase in the temperature of the Earth's atmosphere and oceans caused by pollution.

For teachers: the long-term rise in the average temperature of the Earth's climate system, primarily attributed to the greenhouse effect caused by increased levels of carbon dioxide and other pollutants.

## Examples

- Global warming is causing the ice to melt.
- Scientists are worried that global warming will lead to more extreme weather events like floods and heatwaves.
- The international community must collaborate to mitigate the catastrophic effects of global warming by drastically reducing carbon emissions across all industrial sectors.

## Pitfalls

- Not "the global warming is a problem" but "global warming is a problem" — as an uncountable abstract concept, it usually does not require a definite article when used in a general sense.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable noun; often used with verbs like 'cause', 'combat', or 'slow down'.
- Teaching tip: distinguish this from 'climate change'; while often used interchangeably in casual speech, 'global warming' specifically refers to the temperature rise, whereas 'climate change' includes all resulting side effects.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.