overfishing
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈoʊvərˌfɪʃɪŋ/
KK: /ˈoʊvərˌfɪʃɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The practice of catching too many fish from a body of water, leading to a decrease in fish populations and potentially harming the ecosystem.
Example
Overfishing has caused many fish species to become endangered.
Conversation
Have you heard about the issue of overfishing lately?
Yeah, it's really concerning how it's affecting marine life.
I read that some fish populations are declining because of it.
Exactly, we need to find ways to protect our oceans.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
depletion
exploitation
overharvesting
Antonyms
conservation
sustainability
restoration
verb
Definition
To catch too many fish from a body of water, leading to a decrease in fish populations.
Example
Overfishing has caused many fish species to become endangered.
Tense Forms
Past: overfished
Past Participle: overfished
Conversation
I read an article about how overfishing is affecting our oceans.
Yeah, it's really concerning. Many fish species are disappearing.
Exactly! We need to find ways to stop overfishing before it's too late.
Root Explanation
Overfishing → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "fishing" (from Old English "fiscian", meaning to catch fish). The word describes the act of catching fish excessively, leading to depletion of fish populations.
Memory Tip
Think of 'over' meaning excessively, and 'fishing' as the act of catching fish. This helps you remember that overfishing means catching too many fish.
Visually Confused Words
perishing