toxic

Everyday

1. Toxic means poisonous, able to harm or kill living things if swallowed, breathed in or touched. tree →
2. Toxic is used about behaviour or relationships that are harmful and unkind: «a toxic friendship». tree →

In the lessons

In safety lessons pupils learn the hazard symbol for toxic substances and that cleaning products, some plants, berries, mushrooms and medicines can be toxic — never taste unknown things; keep them away from little children. In science, pollution can make water or air toxic to animals. In lessons on friendships, «toxic» describes someone who keeps making you feel bad. Phrases: «toxic waste», «toxic fumes», «toxic to dogs».

Examples

• Bleach is toxic, so keep it locked away. tree →
• Chocolate is toxic to dogs. tree →
• Some mushrooms are toxic. tree →
• The factory dumped toxic waste in the river. tree →
• Don't breathe in toxic fumes. tree →
• That group chat became toxic. tree →
• Look for the hazard label on toxic products. tree →

Note

Noun: toxin (a poison made by a living thing); toxicity. Safety: if someone swallows something toxic, call emergency services (911 USA/Canada, 999/112 UK/Ireland, 000 Australia, 111 NZ) or a poison centre. «Non-toxic» crayons are safe for children.