Word
swearing
Phoneticsswear·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈswɛɹɪŋ/
UK/swˈeəɹɪŋ/
Definitions
01rude language
B1 · Intermediate Uncountable noun Informal
n. using rude or offensive words, often when you are angry or surprised.
n. the use of profane, obscene, or taboo language, typically as an emotional outlet.
“There was a lot of swearing in the film, so it wasn't suitable for children.”
“The manager warned the staff that excessive swearing in front of customers would result in immediate disciplinary action.”
Usage
Uncountable when referring to the general habit or act of using bad language.
02making an oath
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Law Formal
n. the act of making a serious, formal promise, especially in a court of law.
n. the formal act of taking an oath or making a solemn declaration of truth or allegiance.
“The swearing of the witness took place before the questioning began.”
“The swearing-in ceremony for the new president was attended by dignitaries from across the globe.”
Usage
Often used in the phrase 'the swearing of an oath'.
Etymology
From Middle English sweryng; equivalent to swear + -ing.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
Domain
- 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.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL 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: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784EikenEikenTest 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.Grade 2
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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