Angling: meaning, definitions and examples

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angling

 

[ˈaŋɡlɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

fishing

The sport or pastime of fishing with a rod and line.

Synonyms

angling sport, fishing.

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Word Description / Examples
angling

Same word, but another context, frequently used to also mean an attempt to achieve something by using indirect or clever methods.

  • He is angling for a promotion at work.
  • She was angling for an invitation to the exclusive event.
fishing

A general term used for catching any form of aquatic life including fish, whether for food, commercial use, or recreation. It's broader than 'angling'.

  • We went fishing in the ocean and caught some big tuna.
  • Fishing is a common hobby among retirees.
angling sport

This phrase specifically highlights the competitive or sporting aspect of fishing. It is used when talking about fishing as a sport.

  • The angling sport has a huge following across the world.
  • He won several trophies in the angling sport competitions.

Examples of usage

  • His favorite pastime was angling by the river.
  • She spent the whole day angling for trout.
  • We decided to try angling in the nearby lake.
Context #2 | Noun

deceptive or insidious means

The use of clever but often dishonest methods to achieve something.

Synonyms

deception, manipulation, scheming.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
angling

Used when referring to the activity of fishing with a rod and line. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone's attempt to achieve something in a subtle or indirect way.

  • He spent the afternoon angling by the river.
  • She was angling for a promotion by taking on extra work.
manipulation

Used to describe influencing or controlling someone or something in a cunning, unfair, or unscrupulous way. Often has a negative connotation.

  • The politician’s manipulation of the media was evident.
  • He was accused of emotional manipulation, making her feel guilty to get what he wanted.
deception

Refers to the act of deceiving or misleading someone, usually with the intention to gain an unfair advantage. It has a negative connotation.

  • Her deception was uncovered when the documents were reviewed.
  • He used deception to win the game, which left everyone feeling betrayed.
scheming

Implied when someone is involved in making secret or devious plans, often for personal gain and at the expense of others. It has a negative connotation.

  • Her scheming ways finally caught up with her when her plot was revealed.
  • The movie's villain was always scheming to take over the company.

Examples of usage

  • He managed to secure the deal through political angling.
  • The company used clever angling to manipulate the market.
  • The politician's angling tactics were finally exposed.
Context #3 | Verb

manipulate or deceive

To manipulate or deceive someone in a clever or insidious way.

Synonyms

deceive, manipulate, scheme.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
angling

Use this word when referring to the hobby or activity of fishing with a rod and line.

  • He spent the afternoon angling by the lake.
  • She enjoys angling as a way to relax on weekends.
manipulate

This word is used when discussing controlling or influencing someone or something in a skillful but often unfair or dishonest way. It usually has a negative connotation.

  • She manipulated the data to make the results look better.
  • He was known to manipulate his colleagues to get ahead.
deceive

This word is appropriate when talking about misleading or tricking someone with intent. It often carries a negative connotation.

  • He tried to deceive his friends about his whereabouts.
  • The salesman deceived the customers with false promises.
scheme

This word can be used when talking about a plan or plot, often secret, to achieve a particular goal, usually in a way that is considered dishonest or unethical. It tends to have a negative connotation.

  • The group was involved in a scheme to defraud the company.
  • He devised a scheme to cheat on his exams.

Examples of usage

  • She was angling for a promotion by flattering her boss.
  • He angled his way into getting a better deal.
  • The journalist angled the story to favor his agenda.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old English term 'anglian,' which means to fish with a hook.
  • In Middle English, the term became 'angle,' which also referred to a fishing tool.
  • It was initially influenced by the Old Norse word 'angl,' indicating a curving object – much like a fishing hook.

Historical Significance

  • Angling has been practiced since ancient times, with tools made from bone and wood discovered in caves dated back over 20,000 years.
  • The earliest known text about fishing methods comes from the Roman work 'The Art of Fishing' by Aelred of Rievaulx in the 12th century.
  • In England, the first dedicated angling book, 'The Compleat Angler,' was published in 1653 by Izaak Walton, becoming a classic in outdoor literature.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, angling serves as a bonding activity, often passed down through generations as a way of connecting families.
  • Fishing festivals around the world celebrate angling traditions, showcasing skills, competitions, and community gatherings.
  • In Japan, traditional angling is known as 'tako,' where fishermen use hand lines while wading in shallow waters.

Environmental Impact

  • Angling can affect fish populations, leading to the need for sustainable practices to protect aquatic ecosystems.
  • Catch-and-release methods promote conservation by allowing caught fish to survive and reproduce.
  • Modern angling gear is increasingly designed to minimize environmental impact, such as using biodegradable materials.

Recreational Aspect

  • Angling is a popular hobby worldwide, with millions participating in freshwater, saltwater, or fly fishing.
  • Events like 'Fishing derbies' bring anglers together in friendly competitions to catch the biggest or most fish.
  • Health benefits like relaxation and stress relief are often associated with angling, as it connects individuals with nature.

Translations

Translations of the word "angling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pesca com anzol

🇮🇳 मछली पकड़ना

🇩🇪 Angeln

🇮🇩 memancing

🇺🇦 рибальство

🇵🇱 wędkowanie

🇯🇵 釣り (つり)

🇫🇷 pêche à la ligne

🇪🇸 pesca con caña

🇹🇷 olta ile balık tutma

🇰🇷 낚시

🇸🇦 الصيد بالصنارة

🇨🇿 rybaření

🇸🇰 rybolov

🇨🇳 钓鱼 (diàoyú)

🇸🇮 ribolov

🇮🇸 stangveiði

🇰🇿 қармақпен балық аулау

🇬🇪 თევზაობა

🇦🇿 tutmaq

🇲🇽 pesca con caña

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,987, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.