English Reference

Word

ons

/ˈɑnz/

Definition

n. Stands for Office for National Statistics.

n. Abbreviation for Office for National Statistics. This is the executive office of the UK Statistics Authority.

Examples

“He realized the encounter was just a casual ONS.”

“Many people using dating apps specify in their profiles whether they are looking for a long-term relationship or just an ONS.”

“While some view an ONS as a liberating expression of modern dating, others find the lack of emotional continuity leaves them feeling unfulfilled after the initial excitement fades.”

Examples

simple

“He realized the encounter was just a casual ONS.”

contextual

“Many people using dating apps specify in their profiles whether they are looking for a long-term relationship or just an ONS.”

complex

“While some view an ONS as a liberating expression of modern dating, others find the lack of emotional continuity leaves them feeling unfulfilled after the initial excitement fades.”

Usage

Usually used with the definite article 'the'.

Real-World Examples

“The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said borrowing, the gap between what the government spends and what it collects in tax, was £1.8bn during the month.”
BBC News · 21 Aug 2026
“The prices of hundreds of everyday items, including food and fuel, are tracked by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).”
BBC News · 19 Aug 2026

This entry

Level
C1 · Advanced
Frequency
Frequent
Updated
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British English

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/ons

English Reference