B2nounsocietyenvironment
US/ˌoʊ.vər.pɑː.pjəˈleɪ.ʃən/
UK/ˌəʊ.və.pɒp.jəˈleɪ.ʃən/
a situation where there are too many people living in a place for its resources
In context
Overpopulation puts huge pressure on water, housing and public transport.
Some experts blame overpopulation for the loss of forests in the region.
The essay argues that overpopulation is a bigger risk in cities than in villages.
Words that go with overpopulation
verb + noun
- cause overpopulationRapid migration can cause overpopulation in big cities.
noun + preposition
- problem of overpopulationThe problem of overpopulation affects food supply.
- fears of overpopulationFears of overpopulation have shaped policy in several countries.
- solution to overpopulationEducation may be one solution to overpopulation.
adjective + noun
- urban overpopulationUrban overpopulation leads to traffic and pollution.
- global overpopulationGlobal overpopulation is often debated in IELTS essays.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
overpopulationsCorrect: overpopulation