Befriending: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in the context of forming a friendly relationship with someone, often for the first time or with someone who might be alone or new.

• She spends her weekends befriending the elderly at the local nursing home

Commonly used in everyday situations when talking about the process of forming friendships, generally between peers such as school children or colleagues.

• It's important for new students to spend time making friends to feel more comfortable in their new school

Typically used in formal or professional contexts, focusing on building connections that may not necessarily be based on friendship, such as business relationships.

• The company is focused on establishing relationships with key stakeholders in the industry

Used when someone is starting to develop a friendly relationship with another person, often implying an ongoing effort and possibly a deeper connection over time.

• She spent a lot of time befriending her new neighbors.
• Volunteering at the shelter, he found himself befriending many of the regulars.

Used when describing the act of forming a friendship, typically when the initial phase of getting to know someone has been successfully accomplished.

• She made friends with a lot of people during her trip.
• It's usually easier to make friends with classmates because you see them every day.

Used to describe a general attitude or behavior of kindness and politeness towards others without necessarily implying a deeper relationship or friendship.

• Try to be friendly towards new colleagues.
• Even though they compete in the same industry, they are always friendly towards each other at meetings.