# becoming

/bɪˈkəmɪŋ/ (US) · /bɪkˈʌmɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/becoming
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. changing into

verb · CEFR A1

the process of starting to be something or changing into a new state.

For teachers: the present participle of 'become', indicating a transition into a new state, condition, or role.

- The weather is becoming much colder as winter approaches.
- The candidate is rapidly becoming the favorite among younger voters, largely due to her focus on environmental policy and digital privacy.

### 2. looking good

adjective · CEFR B2 · Formal

describing clothes or colors that look attractive on you.

For teachers: aesthetically pleasing or flattering to the wearer. Often used in formal or slightly dated contexts to describe fashion.

- That shade of blue is very becoming on you.
- The tailor noted that the sharp lines of the charcoal suit were particularly becoming, accentuating the client's height and posture.

### 3. appropriate behavior

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

describing behavior that is polite and right for the situation.

For teachers: socially appropriate or decorous behavior. Frequently used in the negative 'unbecoming' to describe conduct that fails to meet professional or social standards.

- He behaved with a grace becoming of a true professional.
- The board expected a level of dignity becoming of a senior executive, especially when representing the firm at international summits.

### 4. the process of change

noun · CEFR C2 · Academic · Formal

the act of changing or developing into something.

For teachers: the process of coming into existence or passing from one state to another. Often used in philosophical contexts to contrast with 'being'.

- The book explores the becoming of a hero through many challenges.
- In many philosophical traditions, the concept of becoming is viewed as a constant state of flux, where nothing is ever truly static.

## Examples

- The weather is becoming very cold today.
- After years of hard work and study, she is finally becoming a qualified doctor.
- In many philosophical traditions, the concept of becoming is contrasted with being, representing the fluid and ever-changing nature of reality versus a static, permanent existence.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.