ENGLISH
REFERENCE

praying

v.
A2 Elementary US //ˈpɹeɪɪŋ// UK //pɹˈeɪɪŋ// pray·ing

v. speaking to a god or a spiritual power to give thanks or ask for help. You can do this silently in your mind or out loud.

v. addressing a deity or spiritual entity for the purpose of worship, petition, or thanksgiving. Often used with the preposition 'for' when requesting a specific outcome.


SIMPLE

She is praying for her friend to get better.

CONTEXTUAL

Many people find comfort in praying together at a local temple or church during difficult times.

COMPLEX

While some were praying for a swift resolution to the conflict, others remained skeptical that a peaceful agreement could be reached through diplomatic channels alone.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb is often intransitive but frequently takes the preposition 'for' followed by a noun or 'to' followed by the deity.

Pitfall

I am praying you a happy birthdayI am wishing you a happy birthdayPraying is used for spiritual requests or intense hopes; for social greetings, use 'wishing'.

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