Word
having
Phoneticshav·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈhævɪŋ/
UK/hˈævɪŋ/
Definitions
01current action or state
A1 · Beginner
v. the form of 'have' used to talk about things happening now, like eating, drinking, or experiencing something.
v. the present participle of 'have', used in continuous tenses to denote ongoing experiences, consumption, or temporary states.
“We are having a great time at the beach this afternoon.”
“While they were having dinner at the new bistro, the manager approached to ask if the meal met their expectations.”
Usage
Used in continuous tenses for dynamic actions but generally avoided for stative possession.
Pitfall
I am having a car.
I have a car.
Do not use the '-ing' form for permanent possession. Use 'having' for actions like 'having lunch' or 'having fun'.
Synonyms
02possession
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Formal · Literary
n. the act of owning or holding something.
n. the state or act of possessing; ownership of property or goods.
“The having of great wealth does not always lead to happiness.”
“The legal dispute centered on the actual having of the title deeds rather than the mere intent to purchase the estate.”
Usage
Often functions as a gerund in formal philosophical or legal contexts.
Synonyms
- 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.A1 MoversIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.2.0–3.0TOEFL 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: 1.0–1.50–23TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.120–224
- Frequency
- Very common
- Level
- A1 · Beginner
- Updated
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