surface water

[ˈsɜːrfɪs ˈwɔːtər]
nounpl: surface waters
água superficial
1. Water that flows over land or collects on the surface of the earth, including rivers, lakes, streams, and reservoirs
Surface water is more susceptible to contamination than groundwater.
A água superficial é mais suscetível à contaminação do que a água subterrânea.
2. Water bodies or water sources that are exposed to the atmosphere and visible on the earth's surface
The city relies on surface water from the river for its drinking water supply.
A cidade depende da água superficial do rio para seu abastecimento de água potável.
3. In hydrology and environmental science, water occurring naturally above ground level
Surface water runoff from heavy rainfall can cause flooding in urban areas.
O escoamento de água superficial de chuvas intensas pode causar inundações em áreas urbanas.
In Brazil, surface water management is crucial due to varied climate zones—from tropical rainforests with abundant water to semi-arid regions (sertão) facing drought. The term is commonly used in discussions of water scarcity, especially in São Paulo and other major cities. In the USA, surface water rights and management are significant legal and environmental issues, particularly in western states. Both countries regulate surface water quality and usage through environmental agencies.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
runoffflowing waterabove-ground wateropen waterwaterway
Antonyms / Antônimos
groundwatersubsurface waterunderground water

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
água superficial
Standard term used in environmental and scientific contexts
Brazil - Technical/Environmental
água de superfície
Alternative form used in some technical documentation
Portugal
água de superfície
Preferred term in Portuguese environmental legislation and scientific literature
Brazil - Common Usage
água da chuva; água corrente
Less formal alternatives referring to rainwater or running water

Related Words

watershedaquiferprecipitationdrainagestormwaterhydrological cyclewater pollutionwater management

Related Idioms & Phrases

still waters run deep
troubled waters
cross that bridge when you come to it
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