What is the Opposite(Antonym) of “decontaminate”?

The Opposite(Antonym) of “decontaminate”

The antonyms of decontaminate are contaminate, infect, and pollute. These words convey the opposite meaning of decontaminate, which is to remove or neutralize harmful substances from a surface, object, or environment.

Explore all Antonyms of “decontaminate”

• contaminate
• infect
• pollute

Definitions and Examples of contaminate, infect, pollute

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

contaminate

To make something impure or unclean by adding harmful or unwanted substances.

Example

The water was contaminated with toxic chemicals, making it unsafe for drinking.

infect

To spread disease-causing microorganisms to a person, animal, or plant.

Example

The virus can easily infect people who are not vaccinated or have weak immune systems.

pollute

To make air, water, or soil dirty or harmful by adding waste, chemicals, or other unwanted substances.

Example

The factory's emissions polluted the nearby river, killing fish and other aquatic life.

Key Differences: contaminate vs infect vs pollute

• 1. Contaminate refers to making something impure or unclean by adding harmful or unwanted substances.
• 2. Infect refers to spreading disease-causing microorganisms to a person, animal, or plant.
• 3. Pollute refers to making air, water, or soil dirty or harmful by adding waste, chemicals, or other unwanted substances.

Effective Usage of contaminate, infect, pollute

• 1. Environmental Science: Use these antonyms to describe the impact of human activities on the environment.
• 2. Healthcare: Incorporate these antonyms in medical contexts to discuss the spread of diseases and infections.
• 3. Cleaning and Sanitation: Utilize these antonyms to explain the importance of cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects.

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Remember this!

The antonyms of decontaminate are contaminate, infect, and pollute. These words convey the opposite meaning of decontaminate, which is to remove or neutralize harmful substances from a surface, object, or environment. Use these antonyms in environmental science, healthcare, and cleaning contexts to enhance communication and understanding.