Word
giving
Phoneticsgiv·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈɡɪvɪŋ/
UK/ɡˈɪvɪŋ/
Definitions
01generous
B1 · Intermediate
adj. describes someone who is kind and enjoys helping or sharing with others.
adj. characterised by a generous or altruistic nature; inclined to provide support or resources to others.
Español:dadivoso
“She has a very giving nature and always helps her neighbours with their groceries.”
“His giving spirit was evident in the countless hours he spent mentoring underprivileged youth without seeking any public recognition.”
Synonyms
02vibe or style
C1 · Advanced Slang · Informal
adj. used to say that something has a very specific or impressive look, mood, or feeling.
adj. used to indicate that a person, object, or situation strongly embodies a particular aesthetic or atmosphere.
“The decorations at the party were really giving 1920s glamour.”
“The minimalist architecture of the new museum is giving industrial chic in a way that feels both modern and timeless.”
Usage
Often used in the construction 'it's giving [noun/adjective]' to describe a specific impression.
Teaching tip
This is a very modern slang term popular on social media; it may sound out of place in professional or formal contexts.
03the act of gifting
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun
n. the act of providing or presenting something to someone else.
n. the action of bestowing, imparting, or conferring something upon another person.
“The giving of gifts is a central part of many winter holidays.”
“The formal giving of the keys to the city marked the beginning of the annual festival celebrations.”
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “giving” in context.
Real-World Examples
“Joy said the scheme was "a way of giving back" and a way to give the artists a "huge sense of pride".” “Yet, the state has held firm in believing that providing support risks the family giving up caring.” Etymology
By surface analysis, give + -ing.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
ADJECTIVE
Idioms
- 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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Very common
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/giving
Traducciones: Kaikki.org (Wiktionary), CC BY-SA 4.0