Word
regaining
Phoneticsre·gain·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/ɹɪˈɡeɪnɪŋ/
UK/ɹɪɡˈeɪnɪŋ/
Definition
v. getting something back that you lost or that was taken away. You use this when you find your balance, health, or control again.
v. the present participle of 'regain'; refers to the act of recovering possession or use of something previously lost. Typically describes the restoration of abstract qualities like health, composure, or control.
Examples
“She is slowly regaining her strength after the flu.”
“After a difficult start to the match, the team is finally regaining its confidence and scoring goals.”
“The central bank is focused on regaining the public's trust by implementing more transparent policies and stabilizing the national currency after months of volatility.”
Examples
simple
“She is slowly regaining her strength after the flu.”
contextual
“After a difficult start to the match, the team is finally regaining its confidence and scoring goals.”
complex
“The central bank is focused on regaining the public's trust by implementing more transparent policies and stabilizing the national currency after months of volatility.”
Usage
The verb is transitive and requires a direct object representing the thing being recovered.
Pitfall
He is regaining back his health.
He is regaining his health.
Regaining already implies 'getting back', so adding the word 'back' is redundant.
Real-World Examples
“Patrick Clancy said he hoped that Callan might survive after regaining a heartbeat.” “There has been an emphasis in training on attacking crosses in the right way and regaining possession in the final third.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944EikenEikenTest in Practical English ProficiencyThe English proficiency test from the Eiken Foundation of Japan, widely taken by Japanese students. Grades run from 5 to 1, with Pre-1 and Pre-2 between them.Pre-1
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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