sanitation
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the systems used to remove dirty water and human waste safely to keep people healthy.
the systems and infrastructure for the hygienic disposal or recycling of waste, particularly human excreta and sewage.
Simple“Many people in the village gained access to clean water and better sanitation last year.”
In context“The non-profit organisation focused on improving urban sanitation by installing modern sewage systems in the most densely populated districts.”
UsageUsually uncountable when referring to the general concept or infrastructure.
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
the rules and actions taken by a government to protect public health through cleanliness.
the policy and practice of protecting public health through the maintenance of hygienic conditions and disease prevention measures.
Simple“The government introduced new sanitation laws to prevent the spread of disease in the city.”
In context“Effective public sanitation remains a cornerstone of modern urban planning, essential for mitigating the risks of waterborne epidemics in expanding metropolises.”
UsageOften used in policy documents and academic discussions regarding infrastructure and health.
Synonymspublic healthsanitary measures
“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.”
From sanitary + -ation.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.