IELTS Speaking · Vocabulary
degradation
nounˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃnBand 8
Last updated 2 September 2026
In short
“degradation” is a Band 8 noun that means the process by which the quality of the environment is damaged or reduced. Below you'll find its pronunciation, natural example sentences, synonyms and antonyms, and the collocations that help you use it accurately in the IELTS Speaking test.
Meaning
The process by which the quality of the environment is damaged or reduced.
Example sentences
- “Overfarming leads to soil degradation.”
- “Environmental degradation threatens future generations.”
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms
deteriorationdeclinedamage
Antonyms
improvementrestoration
Collocations & common phrases
Collocations
environmental degradationsoil degradationland degradation
Common phrases
degradation of the environment
Related words
Explore more vocabulary
Frequently asked questions
What does “degradation” mean?
The process by which the quality of the environment is damaged or reduced.
How do you use “degradation” in a sentence?
For example: “Overfarming leads to soil degradation.”
What are some synonyms for “degradation”?
Synonyms include deterioration, decline, damage.
Is “degradation” good vocabulary for IELTS Speaking?
Yes. It is Band 8 vocabulary, and collocations such as environmental degradation, soil degradation, land degradation help you use it naturally. Reaching for precise, less common words like this is exactly what lifts your Lexical Resource score.