English Reference

Word

renewable

Phoneticsre·new·able

US/ɹiˈnuəbəɫ/

UK/ɹɪnjˈuːəbəl/

Definitions

01energy/resources

B1 · Intermediate Science

adj. describing energy from natural sources that will never run out, such as the sun, wind, or water.

adj. relating to a natural resource or source of energy that is not depleted by use.

“Many countries are trying to use more renewable energy like wind and solar power.”

“The transition to renewable energy sources is essential for reducing carbon emissions and meeting international climate targets.”

Usage

Often used before nouns like 'energy', 'power', or 'resources'.

Synonyms

Antonyms

finitenon-renewable

02contracts/agreements

B2 · Upper Intermediate Law Formal

adj. describing a contract or agreement that you can continue or extend after it ends.

adj. capable of being extended in validity or duration after the initial term expires.

“The apartment lease is renewable every year if both sides agree.”

“The consultant was offered a six-month contract that is renewable upon successful completion of the primary project milestones.”

Synonyms

extendable

Antonyms

fixed-termnon-renewable

03sustainable energy sources

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Science

n. a type of energy that comes from a source that does not run out.

n. a source of energy that is not depleted by use, such as water, wind, or solar power.

“The government is investing heavily in renewables to protect the environment.”

“Investment in renewables has surpassed that of fossil fuels in several major economies over the last fiscal year.”

Usage

Usually used in the plural form 'renewables'.

Synonyms

renewables

Antonyms

fossil fuels

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “renewable” in context.

01. renewable energy

Etymology

From renew + -able.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry

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
Frequent
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference