sustainable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
sustainable Word Meanings
- capable of being maintained without depletion
- able to be continued or prolonged
- ecologically balanced and not harmful to the environment
sustainable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
sustainable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/
US
/səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/
sustainable Word Etymology
(a) From 'sus-' (from Latin 'sub') + 'tain' (from Latin 'tenere', to hold) + suffix '-able'. (b) Origin: Latin 'sustinere' → Old French 'sustenir' → English 'sustain'. (c) Picture a tree with deep roots holding its ground and flourishing year after year, symbolizing endurance and ecological balance.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I pick up a reusable watering bottle and move the water toward a thirsty sapling. I watch the soil drink and hold moisture, then I adjust the trickle so it doesn’t wash the roots. It feels like choosing a steady rhythm, not a quick fix. When the plant looks greener the next day, the effort makes sense as something to keep going.
Real Context
Sustainable describes something that can be maintained over the long term without depleting resources. It applies to environments, economies, and societies that balance present needs with future viability. You’ll see it in phrases like sustainable development, sustainable energy, and sustainable living. The word emphasizes endurance, adaptability, and a responsible approach to use of materials, energy, and land. It is not a guarantee of perfection, but of a method that keeps resources available for future generations. Learners often confuse it with eco friendly, or with sustainable as a synonym for cheap; in practice it signals long term viability and responsible stewardship.
Usage Reminders
- sustainable is an adjective before a noun
- think long term viability, not cheapness
- use common collocations: sustainable development, sustainable energy, sustainable living
- avoid using as a verb; use sustain for the verb
- sustainability is the noun form you often need for the concept
Common Misconceptions
- It means zero cost, which is rarely true
- It is the same as green or eco friendly
- It is a verb you should conjugate
- It only applies to the environment
- Sustainability and sustainable mean the same thing
Thinking Differences
English speakers use sustainable to describe long term viability across environments, economies, and societies; learners often think it only means eco friendly or cheap, and may confuse sustainability (noun) with sustainable (adjective).
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: sustainable development, sustainable energy, sustainable living
- Differentiate sustain (verb) from sustainable (adj)
- Use sustainability as a noun when talking about the concept
- Think long-term viability, not cheapness
- Practice with policy, business, and lifestyle contexts
- Compare with related words like durable, viable, and eco-friendly
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'sustainable' mean?
A.Connected to urban development
B.Temporary and short-lived
C.Capable of being maintained over the long term without depletion
D.Originating from ancient cultures
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence using 'sustainable'.
A.The sustainable practices of the company help reduce waste.
B.This new device is sustainable and will only last a few months.
C.He decided to purchase sustainable shoes for the project.
D.Their sustainable efforts were only recognized during the event.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'sustainable'?
A.Renewable
B.Fragile
C.Ineffective
D.Transient
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'sustainable'?
A.Fragile
B.Perpetual
C.Durable
D.Eco-friendly
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where sustainability is important?
A.A city planning for renewable energy and resource conservation
B.A temporary pop-up shop that sells supplies
C.An event that focuses on quick sales for profit
D.An organization that ignores environmental impacts
Related Listening
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Analyzing Arguments in Environmental Discourse
English Learning Listening Content
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