English Reference
Verb

channeling

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈtʃænəɫɪŋ/ chan·nel·ing UK spelling channelling

v.to direct your energy, feelings, or ideas toward a specific goal or person. You can also use it when you act like someone else to get their style or power.

v.directing energy, resources, or emotions toward a particular purpose or person; acting as a medium for a specific influence or personality.


SIMPLE

She is channeling all her energy into her new business.

CONTEXTUAL

The actor spent months channeling the spirit of the historical figure to make the performance feel authentic.

COMPLEX

By channeling the public's frustration into a constructive political movement, the leaders managed to pass significant reforms without resorting to civil unrest.

Usage

Often used with the preposition 'into' when referring to the direction of resources or effort.

Pitfall
He is channeling to his inner artist.He is channeling his inner artist.

When used to mean 'acting like' or 'expressing', the verb is transitive and does not require a preposition before the object.

For the last 25 years, he's been the frontman of The Killers, channelling his love of stadium rock and British new wave on songs like Mr Brightside, When You Were Young and Human.

BBC News· 21 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated