damage the environment

USAGE SUMMARY

'damage the environment' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it anytime you need to refer to activities or events that have a negative effect on the environment, such as pollution or deforestation. For example: "Industrial waste has been found to damage the environment, leading to health and safety risks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The groups argue that the fish could damage the environment.

The New York Times

"There are alternatives for utility companies, and there is no need to damage the environment.

The New York Times

Lobster traps do not damage the environment as dragging does, either.

The New York Times

Others are locals who fear that fracking could damage the environment and affect house prices.

The Guardian

He argued that it was idle to suggest that economic activity should never damage the environment.

The Guardian

Increasingly, fiscal conservatives are opposing wasteful federal subsidies of programs that also damage the environment.

The New York Times

But extreme poverty, just like extreme wealth, can also damage the environment.

The Guardian

And would you pass on your favourite tipple if it was shown to damage the environment?

The Guardian

A poorly enforced trade agreement continues to damage the environment and the economy.

The New York Times

Fears that genetically engineered foods will damage the environment have fueled controversy in the developed world.

MIT Technology Review

Critics claim it will damage the environment and could end up costing the taxpayer billions.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing actions that "damage the environment", be specific about the type of damage (e.g., pollution, deforestation) and the affected areas or ecosystems.

Common error

Avoid using "damage the environment" as a vague catch-all phrase. Instead, detail the specific environmental consequences and mechanisms involved to provide a clearer and more impactful message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "damage the environment" functions as a verb phrase acting as a predicate, describing an action that negatively affects the environment. As Ludwig AI correctly indicates, the phrase is a standard way to express harm inflicted upon the natural world.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "damage the environment" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe actions that negatively impact the natural world. According to Ludwig AI, it is widely accepted in written English. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media sources, as well as in scientific contexts. When using the phrase, it is helpful to be specific about the type of damage and the affected areas. While versatile, avoiding overgeneralization ensures more clarity and impact. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively communicate about environmental issues. Remember to consider alternative phrasings, such as "harm the ecosystem" or "degrade the environment", depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

harm the ecosystem

Focuses on the detrimental effects to the ecosystem rather than the broader environment.

degrade the environment

Emphasizes the reduction in quality of the environment.

pollute the environment

Specifically refers to the introduction of contaminants into the environment.

deforest an area

Highlights the impact to specific environments related to deforestation.

degrade natural resources

Specifically refers to harm to the natural resources.

exploit the natural resources

Focuses on over-utilization or irresponsible extraction of resources, indirectly leading to environmental harm.

devastate the natural world

Expresses a more extreme and widespread negative impact on the environment.

upset the ecological balance

Emphasizes the disruption of natural equilibrium within ecosystems.

jeopardize environmental health

Highlights the risks posed to the overall well-being of the environment.

impact the environment negatively

A more general way of describing a negative effect on the environment.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "damage the environment" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "degrade the environment", "cause environmental harm", or "negatively impact the ecosystem". These phrases offer a more sophisticated and precise tone.

What are some specific examples of actions that "damage the environment"?

Examples include deforestation, industrial pollution, unsustainable farming practices, and the release of greenhouse gases. Each of these actions has distinct and significant environmental consequences.

Is there a difference between "harm the environment" and "damage the environment"?

While both phrases are similar, "harm the environment" may imply a broader range of negative effects, while "damage the environment" often suggests more direct and visible physical destruction.

How can I avoid causing actions that "damage the environment"?

By adopting sustainable practices in daily life and supporting policies that promote environmental protection, individuals and organizations can minimize their impact. Reducing consumption, using renewable energy, and properly disposing of waste are key steps.