Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
Mitigation
noun
/ mit-ih-GAY-shuhn /
Easy
Meaning
The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or adverse impacts of something
Origin / Etymology
Latin mitigare — to soften (mitis = gentle + agere = to act)
Synonyms
Alleviation
Reduction
Moderation
Attenuation
Antonyms
Aggravation
Exacerbation
Escalation
Example Sentence
"Climate change mitigation involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while adaptation focuses on adjusting to changes already underway."
🎯 UPSC Usage
Paired with 'adaptation' in every climate answer — know the distinction: mitigation = reducing the cause (emissions), adaptation = responding to the effects. Also used in disaster management (mitigation vs. preparedness) and poverty alleviation. A high-frequency word in GS-3 (Environment) and GS-1 (Disaster Management).
Relevant Subjects