English Reference

Word

NGO

Phoneticsngo

/ɛŋˈɡoʊ/

Countable noun

Definition

n. Stands for Non-Governmental Organisation. A group that operates independently from the government to help society or the environment.

n. Abbreviation for Non-Governmental Organisation. A non-profit entity that operates independently of any government, typically at a local, national, or international level to serve a social or political goal.

Examples

“She works for an NGO that provides clean water.”

“The local NGO partnered with international agencies to distribute emergency medical supplies after the earthquake.”

“While many NGOs rely on private donations to maintain their independence, others receive significant government grants, which can sometimes complicate their neutral status in conflict zones.”

Examples

simple

“She works for an NGO that provides clean water.”

contextual

“The local NGO partnered with international agencies to distribute emergency medical supplies after the earthquake.”

complex

“While many NGOs rely on private donations to maintain their independence, others receive significant government grants, which can sometimes complicate their neutral status in conflict zones.”

Real-World Examples

“Kilwouw, who heads the North Maluku chapter of Walhi, Indonesia’s biggest environmental NGO.”
mongabay.com
“The managing director of the environmental NGO OceanCare, Fabienne McLellan, agreed.”
The Guardian 13 Aug 2026

Synonyms

non-profitcharitycivil society organisation

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.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
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

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English Reference