Word
polluting
Phoneticspol·lut·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/pəˈɫutɪŋ/
UK/pəlˈuːtɪŋ/
Definition
adj. describing something that makes the air, water, or land dirty and dangerous. It is often used to talk about factories, cars, or chemicals that harm nature.
adj. causing contamination or impurity in the natural environment. Often functions as a participial adjective describing substances, industries, or activities that introduce harmful pollutants.
Examples
“The factory was fined for its polluting activities.”
“Many cities are banning older, more polluting vehicles to improve the quality of the air for residents.”
“The report highlights how shift in global manufacturing has moved the most polluting industries to developing nations with fewer environmental regulations.”
Examples
simple
“The factory was fined for its polluting activities.”
contextual
“Many cities are banning older, more polluting vehicles to improve the quality of the air for residents.”
complex
“The report highlights how shift in global manufacturing has moved the most polluting industries to developing nations with fewer environmental regulations.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “polluting” in context.
Usage
Often used as a participial adjective before a noun; can also be the present participle of the verb 'pollute'.
Pitfall
The smoke is very polluted.
The smoke is very polluting.
Learners often confuse the active 'polluting' (causing the damage) with the passive 'polluted' (having been damaged).
- 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.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL 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: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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