contamination
word
Definition
The presence of something harmful or unwanted in a place where it should not be, such as dirty or dangerous substances in food, water, or the environment.
Usage & Nuances
'Contamination' is formal and commonly used in scientific, medical, and environmental contexts. Common collocations: 'water contamination', 'food contamination', 'soil contamination'. Do not confuse with 'pollution'—'contamination' is usually about the presence of specific harmful substances rather than general damage.
Example Sentences
They are testing the water for contamination.
basic
People are worried about chemical contamination after the accident.
natural
Even a small amount of contamination can ruin the lab results.
natural
Experts are studying the spread of contamination in the soil.
natural
The factory caused contamination of the river.
basic
Contamination in food can make people sick.
basic