overharvesting
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈoʊvərˌhɑrvɛstɪŋ/
KK: /oʊvərˈhɑrvɪstɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The act of taking too many resources from nature, such as plants or animals, which can harm the environment and make it difficult for those resources to grow back.
Example
Overharvesting can lead to the extinction of certain species and the destruction of ecosystems.
Conversation
Did you hear about the effects of overharvesting in the ocean?
Yeah, it's really concerning how it affects marine life.
Exactly! We need to find ways to prevent overharvesting to protect those ecosystems.
I agree; sustainable practices are essential for our future.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
exploitation
depletion
overuse
Antonyms
conservation
sustainability
protection
verb
Definition
To take more resources from the environment than can be replaced naturally, leading to depletion.
Example
Overharvesting of fish in the ocean can lead to a decline in their population.
Tense Forms
Past: overharvested
Past Participle: overharvested
Conversation
Did you hear about the fish population declining in our area?
Yeah, I read it’s because of overharvesting by local fishermen.
That makes sense; they need to find a balance.
Root Explanation
Overharvesting → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "harvest" (from Old English *herfest*, meaning to gather crops). The word refers to the excessive gathering of resources, particularly in agriculture or fishing, leading to depletion.
Memory Tip
Think of gathering crops 'excessively' — 'over-' means too much, and 'harvest' means to gather. This helps you remember that overharvesting refers to taking too many resources.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.