# praying

/ˈpɹeɪɪŋ/ (US) · /pɹˈeɪɪŋ/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. speaking to a god

verb · CEFR A2

to speak to a god to give thanks or ask for help.

For teachers: the act of addressing a deity or spiritual entity for the purpose of worship, thanksgiving, or petition.

- The family was praying together in the church on Sunday morning.
- While the congregation was praying for peace, the sunlight filtered through the stained glass, creating a quiet atmosphere of reflection.

### 2. hoping strongly

verb · CEFR B1

hoping very much that something good will happen.

For teachers: expressing or feeling a fervent hope that a particular event will occur or a situation will improve.

- We are all praying that the weather stays dry for the outdoor wedding.
- The rescue teams were praying for a break in the storm, knowing that every hour of delay made their mission more dangerous.

### 3. the act of prayer

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal

the activity of saying prayers.

For teachers: the performance of a prayer or the state of being engaged in spiritual communication.

- The sound of quiet praying could be heard from the back of the room.
- The constant praying of the monks provided a rhythmic background to the daily life of the monastery.

## Examples

- She is praying for her friend to get better.
- Many people find comfort in praying together at a local temple or church during difficult times.
- 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.

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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.