# mining

/ˈmaɪnɪŋ/ (US) · /mˈaɪnɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mining
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. extracting minerals

noun · CEFR B1

the industry or activity of digging coal, gold, or other minerals out of the ground.

For teachers: the process or industry of extracting ores, minerals, or fossil fuels from the earth's crust.

- The local economy depends heavily on coal mining to provide jobs for the community.
- Environmental regulations have become increasingly stringent regarding the waste products generated by open-pit mining operations in the region.

Usage: often used as an uncountable noun or as a modifier before another noun.

### 2. cryptocurrency

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

using powerful computers to create new units of digital money like Bitcoin.

For teachers: the process by which transactions for various forms of cryptocurrency are verified and added to the blockchain digital ledger.

- He spent thousands of dollars on specialized computer hardware for Bitcoin mining.
- The massive energy consumption required for industrial-scale crypto mining has sparked a global debate about its long-term sustainability.

Usage: uncountable in this context.

### 3. placing explosives

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the act of putting explosive mines in the ground or in the water during a war.

For teachers: the strategic deployment of explosive mines in a terrestrial or maritime environment to deter or destroy enemy forces.

- The navy began the mining of the harbor to prevent enemy ships from entering.
- International treaties strictly regulate the mining of international waters to protect civilian shipping lanes during times of conflict.

## Examples

- Mining for gold is a very difficult and dangerous job.
- The local economy relies heavily on coal mining, which provides jobs for thousands of workers in the valley.
- Environmental regulations have become increasingly stringent, forcing the mining industry to adopt more sustainable practices to mitigate the long-term impact on local ecosystems and water tables.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.