IELTS Speaking · Vocabulary
depletion
noun/dɪˈpliːʃn/Band 8
Last updated 21 July 2026
In short
“depletion” is a Band 8 noun that means the reduction of something, especially a natural resource, by using it up. 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 reduction of something, especially a natural resource, by using it up.
Example sentences
Natural, spoken examples at the level an examiner rewards.
- “The depletion of fish stocks worries scientists.”
- “We must slow the depletion of natural resources.”
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms
exhaustionreductionusing up
Antonyms
replenishmentrenewal
Collocations & common phrases
Word partners that make your usage sound natural — the difference between knowing a word and using it well.
Collocations
resource depletionozone depletiondepletion of stocks
Common phrases
the depletion of resources
Related words
Explore more vocabulary
Frequently asked questions
What does “depletion” mean?
The reduction of something, especially a natural resource, by using it up.
How do you use “depletion” in a sentence?
For example: “The depletion of fish stocks worries scientists.”
What are some synonyms for “depletion”?
Synonyms include exhaustion, reduction, using up.
Is “depletion” good vocabulary for IELTS Speaking?
Yes. It is Band 8 vocabulary, and collocations such as resource depletion, ozone depletion, depletion of stocks help you use it naturally. Reaching for precise, less common words like this is exactly what lifts your Lexical Resource score.
Next step
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