WordGarden.iosustainably
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /səstˈeɪnəbli/
US
Meanings
Adverb
in an environmentally responsible way that can continue long term
in a way that can be maintained over time
Beyond the definition
Imagine your favorite forest: lush trees, buzzing bees, and clear streams. If people use its resources carefully, that forest can stay healthy for years. That is the core idea here. When something is done sustainably, it is done in a way that can continue for a long time without causing serious harm or using up what is needed for the future.
Think of it like this: you would not want to pick every apple from a tree at once and leave none for next year. The word is often used when talking about the environment, but it can also describe any method that is practical over time. You might sustainably source coffee by protecting forests and workers, or sustainably build a house by using materials and methods that reduce waste. The idea is balance: meeting needs now while still leaving enough for the future.
The word "sustainably" describes actions, practices, or systems carried out in a way that can continue over the long term without causing serious damage or using up resources too quickly. It is often linked to environmental topics, but the meaning can be broader than simply being "green." It can also include social and economic factors, especially when people are talking about long-term responsible planning.
You'll often hear "sustainably" used in relation to agriculture (farming sustainably), resource management (sustainably harvesting timber), energy use, design, or business operations. In these cases, it usually means that the activity is planned to reduce waste, limit harm, and remain workable in the future instead of producing quick results that create bigger problems later.
However, acting sustainably is not limited to large industries. It also applies to personal choices. You can shop sustainably by buying less, choosing durable goods, or supporting companies with responsible production methods. You can travel sustainably by using public transportation or choosing options that reduce environmental impact.
The idea behind sustainability is that actions today affect what will still be possible tomorrow. So when you hear the word "sustainably," think of doing something in a way that can keep going: with care for resources, with attention to future effects, and without chasing short-term gains at a long-term cost.
Examples
- 1
Everyday choices
We are trying to live more sustainably by using less energy at home.
- 2
Farming
The farm now grows vegetables sustainably, with less waste and fewer chemicals.
- 3
Materials sourcing
The company says all its wood is sourced sustainably.
- Patternsource + product sustainably
obtain it in a way that does not damage the environment long-term
- 4
Urban planning
City leaders want the area to develop sustainably instead of building too fast.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Business support
The charity helps local businesses operate sustainably after the first year of support.
- Patternoperate sustainably
continue successfully over time without needing constant outside help
See also
Similar
- responsibly
- in an environmentally responsible way
Shades of meaning
- renewably
- ethically
- regeneratively
Contrast
- unsustainably
- wastefully
Used with (collocations)
- sustainably sourced
- sustainably produced
- live sustainably
- grow sustainably
Word family
Explore
- circular economy
- environmental impact
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- sustainably