Word
sanitation
Phoneticssan·i·ta·tion, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌsænəˈteɪʃən/
UK/sˌænɪtˈeɪʃən/
Definitions
01waste disposal systems
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun
n. the systems used to remove dirty water and human waste safely to keep people healthy.
n. the systems and infrastructure for the hygienic disposal or recycling of waste, particularly human excreta and sewage.
“Many people in the village gained access to clean water and better sanitation last year.”
“The non-profit organisation focused on improving urban sanitation by installing modern sewage systems in the most densely populated districts.”
Usage
Usually uncountable when referring to the general concept or infrastructure.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02public health measures
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Academic · Formal
n. the rules and actions taken by a government to protect public health through cleanliness.
n. the policy and practice of protecting public health through the maintenance of hygienic conditions and disease prevention measures.
“The government introduced new sanitation laws to prevent the spread of disease in the city.”
“Effective public sanitation remains a cornerstone of modern urban planning, essential for mitigating the risks of waterborne epidemics in expanding metropolises.”
Usage
Often used in policy documents and academic discussions regarding infrastructure and health.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“Among those assessed in Chocó, Risaralda, Valle del Cauca and Caldas, 33 per cent have sanitation and hygiene needs, 31 per cent face problems accessing water and 22 per cent need food.” “The US has promised $500,000 (£367,982) in aid which will be used to cover emergency shelter, water, sanitation and other relief items for communities affected by the floods.” Etymology
From sanitary + -ation.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- 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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