Skip to content

Smog

smog

noun SMOK Rare
Animals & Nature Environment

Origin: blend of English 'smoke' and 'fog'

Usage Note

Smog in German refers to photochemical or industrial air pollution that reduces visibility and threatens health. Germany has issued Smog-Alarmstufen (smog alert levels) since the 1970s. The word is used in environmental journalism and health reports, especially in the context of Chinese or South Asian megacities.

Examples

"In manchen chinesischen Großstädten ist der Smog so dicht, dass man kaum atmen kann."

Natural Translation

In some Chinese cities the smog is so thick that one can barely breathe.

Literal Translation

In some Chinese large cities the smog is so thick that one can hardly breathe.

Explore German by topic