ENGLISH
REFERENCE

pioneering

adj. · n.
US //ˌpaɪəˈnɪɹɪŋ// UK //paɪənˈiəɹɪŋ// pi·o·neer·ing
  1. 1 innovative and first (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    using new methods or doing something that has never been done before.

    involving accomplishments or activities that are unprecedented; developing or using new methods or techniques.

    Example

    The hospital is famous for its pioneering work in heart surgery.

    Example

    Her pioneering research into renewable energy sources laid the groundwork for the sustainable technologies we rely on today.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun it describes.

  2. 2 the act of being a pioneer (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    the activity of being the first to do something or explore a new area.

    the activity or process of opening up new areas of thought, research, or physical territory.

    Example

    The pioneering of new trade routes was dangerous but profitable.

    Example

    The rapid pioneering of digital communication in the late twentieth century fundamentally altered the global economic landscape.

    Usage

    Uncountable in this sense.

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  1. 3 scouting skill (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical

    a skill in scouting where you build things using wooden poles and rope.

    a scoutcraft skill involving the construction of structures such as bridges or towers using staves and knots.

    Example

    The scouts practiced their pioneering by building a bridge across the stream.

    Example

    The troop demonstrated their proficiency in pioneering by erecting a functional observation tower using only timber and hemp rope.

    Usage

    Uncountable; specific to the context of scouting or outdoor survival training.

    • scoutcraft

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