ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sustainable

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //səˈsteɪnəbəɫ// UK //səstˈeɪnəbəl// sus·tain·able General-service

adj. able to continue for a long time without causing damage to the environment. It also describes a way of living or working that does not use up all the natural resources.

adj. capable of being maintained at a steady level without exhausting natural resources or causing severe ecological damage. Often used to describe economic or environmental practices that meet current needs without compromising future generations.


SIMPLE

We need to find more sustainable ways to produce energy.

CONTEXTUAL

The company switched to sustainable packaging to reduce its carbon footprint and appeal to eco-conscious customers.

COMPLEX

Achieving a truly sustainable global economy requires a fundamental shift from linear consumption models toward circular systems that prioritize the regeneration of natural capital over short-term industrial growth.

Origin

From sustain + -able.

Usage

Commonly modifies nouns related to development, energy, or lifestyle; often used in the phrase 'sustainable development'.

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