What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
littering
Example
Please don't litter in the park. [litter: verb]
Example
Littering is harmful to the environment and can cause pollution. [littering: gerund or present participle]
pollution
Example
Air pollution is a major problem in many cities around the world. [pollution: noun]
Example
The factory's waste is polluting the nearby river. [polluting: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pollution is a more common term than littering in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of environmental issues. However, both terms are essential to understand and address environmental problems.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between littering and pollution?
Both littering and pollution are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in various contexts, from casual to formal, depending on the situation.