温暖化

• Reading: おんだんか
• Romaji: ondanka
• Kanji breakdown: 温 (on) — warm; 暖 (dan) — warm; 化 (ka) — change, -ification
• Pronunciation: /oɴ.daɴ.ka/

Meaning

Global warming. The gradual increase of the Earth's average surface temperature.

A noun that can function as a suru-verb (温暖化する). Almost always used in the phrase 地球温暖化 (global warming). It is one of the most frequently discussed environmental topics. Common collocations include 温暖化対策 (measures against global warming) and 温暖化の影響 (effects of global warming).

Examples

1. 地球温暖化を止めるために何ができるだろう。 What can we do to stop global warming?
2. 温暖化の影響で氷が溶けている。 Ice is melting due to the effects of global warming.
3. 温暖化対策として二酸化炭素を減らす必要がある。 We need to reduce carbon dioxide as a measure against global warming.

Usage Guide

Context: environment, news, science

Tone: serious

Origin & History

Composed of 温暖 (warm, mild, from 温 'warm' + 暖 'warm') and 化 (to change into, -ification). Literally the transformation into warmth.

Cultural Context

Era: Contemporary

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal