# ons

/ˈɑnz/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ons
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. UK statistics office

noun · CEFR B2 · British English

Stands for Office for National Statistics.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Office for National Statistics. This is the executive office of the UK Statistics Authority.

- The latest report from the ONS shows that food prices are finally starting to fall.
- According to the ONS, the employment rate has remained surprisingly stable despite the recent economic downturn and rising interest rates.

Usage: Usually used with the definite article 'the'.

## 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.

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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.