environmental
ihn-veye-ruh-MEHN-tuhl
Environmental (adjective) means relating to the natural world or its protection. Example: “The company faced an environmental review before construction could begin.”
adjective
1
Relating to the natural world or its protection.
"The company faced an environmental review before construction could begin."
"Volunteers joined an environmental group to clean up the river every spring."
"She studies environmental science because she wants to protect the coastline."
2
Relating to a person's or system's surrounding conditions.
"Environmental factors like stress and diet affect long-term health."
"Environmental conditions such as heat and noise can make it hard to concentrate."
"The plant grew badly because of environmental problems like poor light and dry soil."
How to use environmental
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHaving to do with the environment — either nature, or surrounding conditions in general.
Common pairings
environmental impact
environmental policy
environmental factors
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Word forms
- Plural
- environmentals
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The company faced an _____ review before construction could begin.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for environmental
mental
dental
rental
parental
Oriental
elemental
accidental
ornamental
judgmental
incidental
monumental
regimental
See all rhymes for environmental →
Frequently asked questions
What does “environmental” mean?
The word “environmental” means relating to the natural world or its protection. In plain terms, having to do with the environment — either nature, or surrounding conditions in general.
How do you pronounce “environmental”?
“Environmental” is pronounced ihn-veye-ruh-MEHN-tuhl (/ənˌvaɪ.ɚnˈmɛn.təl/ in IPA).
How do you use “environmental” in a sentence?
Here is “environmental” used in a sentence: “The company faced an environmental review before construction could begin.”
What part of speech is “environmental”?
“Environmental” is an adjective.
Is “environmental” a common word?
“Environmental” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “environmental” have?
“Environmental” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to the natural world or its protection.
What is the difference between environmental and ecological?
Environmental relates broadly to the natural world and its protection, often in the context of policy, pollution, or sustainability. Ecological is narrower and more scientific, dealing with the relationships between living things and their surroundings. All ecological matters are environmental, but 'environmental' covers a wider, more everyday range of concerns.
What are examples of environmental issues?
Major environmental issues include climate change, air and water pollution, deforestation, plastic and other waste, loss of wildlife and habitats, and the depletion of natural resources. Each concerns the health of the natural world and the human activity that damages or protects it.
What does 'environmental' mean in business?
In business, 'environmental' usually refers to a company's impact on nature. It appears in terms like environmental policy, environmental regulations, and environmental impact assessments. It is also the 'E' in ESG — environmental, social, and governance — the standards used to judge how responsibly a company operates.
Why are environmental concerns important?
Because the natural world provides the clean air, water, food, and stable climate that all life depends on. Damage such as pollution or deforestation harms human health, wildlife, and future generations. Protecting the environment helps safeguard these essentials and keeps the planet liveable for the long term.
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