gang - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
gang Word Meanings
- a group of people involved in criminal activities
- a group of friends or associates
- to move together in a group
gang Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
gang Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɡæŋ/
US
/ɡæŋ/
gang Word Etymology
gang = go, move + an Old Norse root meaning 'to go' (related to movement). Originated from Old Norse 'ganga' meaning 'to walk'. Imagine a group of friends walking together down a street, forming a 'gang' as they move in unison.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I step onto the street as a gang passes, and I set my pace to keep up. A tight line of people moves ahead, turning in sync as they walk. I feel the pull of belonging and adjust my stride to stay with them, the push and pull of the crowd guiding me. The scene shifts from individuals to a single rhythm, and the word begins to feel like a living thing when a group moves together.
Real Context
gang is a casual word for a group of people who move or act together. It can refer to a criminal group, such as a street gang involved in illegal activities, or more innocently to a close circle of friends or coworkers who hang out or work together. It can also be used as a verb phrase 'to gang up' meaning to join forces with others to oppose, defend, or accomplish something, or to move together in a group. In everyday speech you might hear 'a gang of friends' or 'a gang of kids' used playfully, but the word can carry a negative or dangerous connotation depending on context. Common collocations include gang member, gang-related, and gang up.
Usage Reminders
- Be aware of three senses: criminal group, friends/associates, and the verb phrase to gang up.
- Use 'a gang of' for groups of people, not objects.
- Distinguish from 'group' or 'team' in neutral contexts.
- Avoid assuming every use refers to crime.
- Remember common collocations like gang member, gang-related, and to gang up on.
Common Misconceptions
- Gang always means criminals; it can also refer to a casual group of friends.
- Using gang to describe any group is informal and may sound rough.
- Do not confuse 'gang' with 'group' in neutral contexts.
- The verb phrase 'to gang up' means to unite against someone, not just to walk together.
- Avoid overusing 'gang' in formal writing; opt for 'group' or 'team' when appropriate.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, gang is a flexible, informal term that can mean a criminal group or a casual circle of friends. Learners often assume it always carries a criminal meaning, which leads to odd phrasing when you mean a neutral group. Remember the verb 'to gang up' means to unite with others to oppose or assist, not just to move together. Pay attention to context and tone.
Learning Tips
- 1) Practice both sense: criminal group and casual friend group.
- 2) Memorize key collocations: gang member, gang-related, gang up on.
- 3) Distinguish 'to gang up' from simply walking together.
- 4) Use neutral terms (group/band) in formal writing.
- 5) Listen for connotation and tone in real speech.
- 6) Check context clues to choose the right translation.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'gang'?
A.A solo individual
B.A gathering of friends
C.A peaceful community
D.A group of people who engage in criminal activities
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'gang' typically used in a sentence?
A.The gang of robbers was finally caught by the police
B.I had a gang of friends over for dinner
C.The gang helped the elderly lady cross the street
D.He was the only gang in the neighborhood
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'gang'?
A.Crowd
B.Individual
C.Crew
D.Overnight
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'gang'?
A.Organized
B.Party
C.Packed
D.Alone
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you most likely hear the word 'gang'?
A.Bakery
B.Police report
C.School playground
D.Library
Related Listening
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