environmentally
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɛnvˌaɪrənmˈɛntəli/
US
- /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmɛnəli/
- /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmɛntəli/
Description
- in a way related to nature
- in a way that affects the natural world
- with care for the planet
The word "environmentally" describes the way something relates to the natural world - the air, water, land, plants, and animals around us. It is often used when talking about effects on nature or about trying to protect it. You might describe a product as "environmentally friendly" if it is made in a way that does not harm nature. You could also say a company is acting "environmentally responsibly" when it takes steps to reduce pollution or save energy.
Think of it like this: our actions can help or harm the natural world. A farmer who uses organic methods is working in an environmentally conscious way, while a factory that dumps waste into a river is not. The word often points to our impact on the world around us and to the effort to make better choices.
"Environmentally" is an adverb that describes the way something relates to the natural environment - the air, water, land, plants, and animals around us. It is often used to show how an action, process, product, or decision affects nature. In many common phrases, it also suggests care, caution, or responsibility toward the planet.
You'll often see "environmentally" paired with adjectives like "friendly," "safe," "sound," "sustainable," or "responsible." For example, "environmentally friendly" means causing little harm to nature, and "environmentally sustainable" describes ways of living or working that do not damage natural resources over time. In these cases, the word helps explain the kind of effect something has on the planet.
The word is common in discussions about pollution, climate, conservation, farming, energy use, transport, packaging, and manufacturing. You might read about "environmentally responsible policies," "environmentally safe cleaning products," or "environmentally damaging practices." In each case, the focus is on the connection between human activity and the natural world.
It can also be used in a broader and more neutral way, not only in praise. For instance, "environmentally induced diseases" refers to illnesses caused by things in the environment, such as pollution or contaminated water. In this kind of use, the word simply shows that the cause comes from environmental conditions.
So, when you hear "environmentally," think about how something connects to the natural world and what kind of effect it has. Sometimes the effect is positive, sometimes negative, and sometimes the word is simply pointing to the source of a problem. Most often, though, it appears in contexts where people are thinking about protecting nature and reducing harm.
Examples
- 1
Company policy
The company is trying to become more environmentally friendly.
- 2
Products
Some cleaning products are cheap, but they can be environmentally harmful.
- 3
Building design
The new office was designed to use energy in a more environmentally responsible way.
- 4
Cost and nature
We need a solution that works both economically and environmentally.
Phrase
both economically and environmentally
in terms of cost and effects on nature
- 5
Protected area
The coast is an environmentally sensitive area, so building is strictly controlled.
Phrase
environmentally sensitive
easily harmed by changes to nature
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- environmentallyadverb