Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈæs.ɪd reɪn/

Meaning and Usage

Acid rain refers to any form of precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or hail) that has a high level of acidity. It is caused by the emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) which react chemically in the atmosphere. Acid rain can harm ecosystems, damage buildings, and influence human health.

• Frequency of Use: The term "acid rain" is commonly used in environmental science contexts and discussions about pollution. It is frequently encountered in both written and oral forms, although it may appear more often in written texts like scientific articles, reports, and environmental analyses.

Example Sentences

1. Acid rain can lead to the deterioration of statues and buildings made of limestone.

2. Acid rain puede causar la deterioración de estatuas y edificios de piedra caliza.

3. Many lakes in the region have been affected by acid rain, impacting local fish populations.

4. Muchos lagos en la región se han visto afectados por acid rain, impactando las poblaciones de peces locales.

5. The government has implemented new regulations to reduce emissions that cause acid rain.

6. El gobierno ha implementado nuevas regulaciones para reducir las emisiones que causan acid rain.

Idiomatic Expressions

The term "acid rain" itself does not appear in many idiomatic expressions; however, it is often associated with discussions on environmental issues, pollution, and climate change, allowing it to be used metaphorically in specific contexts.

1. "We can't afford to let our discussions about pollution go down the same path as acid rain—ignored until it's too late."

2. "No podemos permitir que nuestras discusiones sobre la contaminación vayan por el mismo camino que acid rain—ignoradas hasta que sea demasiado tarde."

3. "Like acid rain, negligence can corrode even the strongest foundations of our society."

4. "Como acid rain, la negligencia puede corroer incluso los cimientos más fuertes de nuestra sociedad."

5. "The community's response to environmental issues has been like acid rain, gradually wearing down apathetic attitudes."

6. "La respuesta de la comunidad a los problemas ambientales ha sido como acid rain, desgastando gradualmente las actitudes apáticas."

Etymology

The term "acid rain" emerged in the 1970s, highlighting a concern over the environmental effects caused by industrial pollution. The word "acid" comes from the Latin "acidus," meaning sharp or sour, while "rain" comes from Old English "regn," meaning water falling in drops.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Acidic precipitation - Polluted rain

Antonyms: - Clean rain - Pure precipitation