Amassing: meaning, definitions and examples

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amassing

 

[əˈmasɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

collecting

To gather together or accumulate a large quantity of something.

Synonyms

accumulating, collecting, gathering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
amassing

Use this word when talking about gathering large quantities of something over time, often wealth, resources, or information. It can sometimes imply a strategic intent.

  • She dedicated her life to amassing a vast art collection.
  • The company focused on amassing reserves to prepare for future challenges.
collecting

Use 'collecting' when someone intentionally gathers items, typically those of personal interest or value, such as hobbies or specific interests.

  • He has been collecting stamps since childhood.
  • She enjoys collecting vintage postcards from around the world.
accumulating

This word is used when something builds up gradually over time. It is often used in the context of non-tangible items like knowledge or experiences, but can also be used for tangible items.

  • Dust was accumulating on the shelves.
  • Over the years, she has been accumulating a wealth of knowledge.
gathering

This word is suitable when people, items, or information are brought together, usually in a planned way. It can be used for both formal and informal situations.

  • He was gathering materials for the project.
  • We are gathering for a family reunion this weekend.

Examples of usage

  • He has been amassing a huge collection of vintage cars over the years.
  • The company is amassing a significant amount of data through its research efforts.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Old French 'amasser', which means to pile up or collect.
  • It has roots in the Latin word 'mānsus', meaning to seize or take.
  • The concept of amassing dates back to when people would gather resources for survival.

Economics

  • In economics, amassing wealth means collecting assets and resources, which can provide financial stability.
  • Successful investors often focus on amassing shares in profitable companies over time.
  • The principle of 'wealth accumulation' shows how people can amass wealth through saving and investments.

Psychology

  • People may amass possessions to feel a sense of security or achievement.
  • Studies show that hoarding behavior can be linked to emotional responses rather than practical reasons.
  • Amassing can create a sense of identity, where individuals feel defined by their collections.

Literature

  • In literature, characters might symbolize the theme of amassing through their relationships or material goods.
  • Classic tales often explore the consequences of amassing power or wealth, such as in ‘The Great Gatsby’.
  • Poets may use the idea of amassing experiences as a metaphor for personal growth and memory.

History

  • Throughout history, kingdoms often amassed wealth and resources through conquest and trade.
  • The Silk Road allowed for the amassing of cultural goods and knowledge between East and West.
  • American pioneers in the 19th century aimed at amassing land to fulfill their dreams of prosperity.

Translations

Translations of the word "amassing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 acumulação

🇮🇳 संग्रह

🇩🇪 Ansammlung

🇮🇩 pengumpulan

🇺🇦 нагромадження

🇵🇱 gromadzenie

🇯🇵 集積

🇫🇷 accumulation

🇪🇸 acumulación

🇹🇷 biriktirme

🇰🇷 축적

🇸🇦 تكديس

🇨🇿 hromadění

🇸🇰 zhromažďovanie

🇨🇳 积累

🇸🇮 kopičenje

🇮🇸 söfnun

🇰🇿 жинақтау

🇬🇪 დაგროვება

🇦🇿 yığma

🇲🇽 acumulación

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,891, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.