English Reference
verb · noun

conducting

v. · n.
US /kənˈdəktɪŋ/ UK /kəndˈʌktɪŋ/ con·duct·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Music

    v.leading a group of musicians or singers by moving your hands or a stick.

    v.directing the performance of an orchestra, choir, or musical ensemble through rhythmic gestures.

    Simple

    She has been conducting the local youth orchestra for over five years.

    In context

    Conducting a full symphony requires not only rhythmic precision but also a deep interpretive understanding of the composer's original intent.

    Usage

    Often used with a direct object representing the musical group.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.organising and carrying out a particular activity, like a study or a meeting.

    v.organising and carrying out a specific process, investigation, or set of actions.

    Simple

    The scientists are conducting an experiment to see how plants grow in the dark.

    In context

    The department is currently conducting a thorough review of its safety protocols following the recent incident in the laboratory.

    Usage

    Commonly collocates with 'research', 'experiment', 'interview', or 'investigation'.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    v.allowing electricity or heat to flow through a material.

    v.serving as a medium for the transmission of electrical energy or thermal heat.

    Simple

    Copper is excellent at conducting electricity, which is why it is used in wires.

    In context

    The experiment demonstrated that certain polymers, while usually insulators, can be modified for conducting electrical charges under specific conditions.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced Academic Music

    n.the job or skill of a person who leads an orchestra.

    n.the art or profession of a conductor; the act of directing a musical ensemble.

    Simple

    His conducting was praised by the critics for being very energetic.

    In context

    Her unique style of conducting brought a fresh perspective to the classical repertoire, earning her international acclaim.

Margo Williams, Maltbie’s fifth-great-great-niece, only learned of her ancestor’s wartime mission while conducting research for her application to the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Smithsonian Magazine· 17 Aug 2026

After conducting a search of the area, the officers located and arrested the two suspects, police said.

Toronto Sun· 15 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated