Define anthropogenic Meaning and Definition
Define anthropogenic
Pronunciation
/ˌænθrəʊˈpɒdʒɪnɪk/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
A define anthropogenic phenomenon, activity, or process is one that is caused or influenced by human activity or actions.
Examples
- The burning of fossil fuels is an example of an anthropogenic cause of climate change.
- Deforestation is an anthropogenic activity that can lead to soil erosion and loss of biodiversity.
Synonyms
- Human-made
- Artificial
Antonyms
- Natural
- Spontaneous
Additional Information
The term anthropogenic has gained increasing attention in recent years due to the growing awareness of human impact on the environment. Anthropogenic activities have significant effects on the ecosystem, climate, and natural resources. For instance, greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and pollution are all anthropogenic causes of environmental degradation.
However, anthropogenic phenomena are not limited to negative consequences. Human innovations, technological advancements, and scientific discoveries can also have positive impacts on the environment and society.
The term anthropogenic highlights the need for responsible and sustainable human activities, acknowledging the role of human agency in shaping the planet and its resources.
Etymology
The term anthropogenic is derived from the Greek words ‘anthropos’ meaning ‘human’ and ‘genos’ meaning ‘born’ or ’caused by’. The word was first coined in the late 19th century to describe phenomena or processes that are caused by human activity.
Usage Notes
The term anthropogenic is commonly used in environmental science, ecology, and conservation biology to describe the impact of human activities on the natural world. It can also be used in social sciences, economics, and philosophy to explore the consequences of human actions and decisions.
Cultural References
The term anthropogenic has appeared in various forms of media, including books, articles, documentaries, and podcasts. For example, the documentary series “Our Planet” explores the anthropogenic causes of environmental degradation and the impact of human activities on the natural world.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
The term anthropogenic is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions or phrases, but it can be used in compound words such as “anthropogenic emission” or “anthropogenic impact”.
Related Words or Phrases
- Natural
- Artificial
- Human-made
- Sustainable
- Responsible
Collocations
- Anthropogenic climate change
- Anthropogenic pollution
- Anthropogenic environmental degradation
- Anthropogenic impact on biodiversity
Frequency of Use
The term anthropogenic is commonly used in scientific and academic writing, particularly in fields related to environmental science, ecology, and conservation biology. It is also used in policy documents, reports, and articles related to environmental issues and sustainable development.
Common Misspellings
- Anthropagene
- Anthropojenic
- Anthropojenic