English Reference

Word

exploring

Phoneticsex·plor·ing, stress on the second syllable

US/ɪksˈpɫɔɹɪŋ/

UK/ɛksplˈɔːɹɪŋ/

Definitions

01traveling to learn

B1 · Intermediate

v. traveling through an unfamiliar area to find out what is there.

v. the act of traveling through an unfamiliar geographical area for the purpose of discovery or reconnaissance.

“We spent the whole afternoon exploring the narrow streets of the old town.”

“After years of planning, the team began exploring the remote mountain range, documenting rare plant species that had never been recorded by scientists.”

Usage

often used with 'the' followed by a specific location.

02investigating an idea

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. thinking about or discussing a subject or possibility carefully.

v. the systematic examination or investigation of a subject, idea, or potential course of action.

“The company is exploring new ways to reduce plastic waste in their packaging.”

“The researchers are currently exploring the link between sleep patterns and cognitive performance in older adults to develop better health guidelines.”

Usage

frequently appears in academic or professional contexts when discussing options.

03the activity of discovery

B1 · Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. the activity of searching and discovering.

n. the gerund used as a noun to describe the general activity of discovery or investigation.

“Exploring is a great way to learn about different cultures and traditions.”

“Space exploring remains one of the most expensive and technically challenging human endeavours of the modern era.”

Usage

functions as a subject or object in a sentence.

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Frequency
Common
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference