conservation
/ˌkɒn.səˈveɪ.ʃən/ IELTSAcademic
noun
The protection and careful use of natural resources, wildlife, or old buildings. It means stopping damage and keeping something in good condition for the future.
- Forest conservation is important for future generations.
- The museum supports the conservation of ancient paintings.
- Water conservation helps during dry months.
Adinary Nuance
Conservation is stronger and more specific than general words like care or protection. It often refers to nature, wildlife, energy, or historic places, especially in formal or public-policy writing. Use preservation when the focus is keeping something unchanged, and conservation when the focus is careful use and protection.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- bảo tồn
- Spanish
- conservación
- Chinese
- 保护
- Japanese
- 保全
- Korean
- 보존
Etymology
From Latin conservatio, from conservare meaning “keep safe” or “preserve.” It came into English through French in the late Middle Ages.
Common phrases
conservation effortswildlife conservationenergy conservationconservation area
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is conservation a formal word?
- Yes. It is common in academic, environmental, and government writing.
- What is the difference between conservation and preservation?
- Conservation usually means careful use and protection. Preservation means keeping something unchanged.
- Can I use conservation for energy?
- Yes. Energy conservation means using less energy or using it carefully.
- Is conservation used with nature only?
- No. It can also be used for buildings, art, and cultural heritage.