# NGO

/ɛŋˈɡoʊ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ngo
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. non-profit organisation

noun · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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.

- She decided to volunteer for an NGO that provides clean water to rural villages.
- The international NGO coordinated with local authorities to distribute emergency medical supplies following the earthquake.

## 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.

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