noun · academic
desertification
UK/ˌdɛzəˌtɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/US/ˌdɛzərˌtɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/de·ser·ti·fi·CA·tion
The process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically because of drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture.
Examples
“Intensive grazing and repeated droughts have accelerated desertification in the region.”
“Policies that restore soil cover can slow desertification and help local farmers.”
“Desertification reduces arable land and increases food insecurity for communities.”
Band 8 sentence
“If we don't change land-use practices, the Sahel could face irreversible desertification within decades.”
Collocations
- combat desertification
- risk of desertification
- prevent desertification
Word family
Common mistakes
use 'desert' instead of 'desertification'→desertification
say 'the desertification is caused by' (thừa the)→desertification is caused by
Say it for a higher band
5desert→6land degradation→7+desertification
Synonyms
land degradation
Easily confused
deforestation
“Deforestation can increase the risk of soil erosion and, over time, contribute to desertification.”
Related words
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In Environment & Climate
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