Bidding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bidding

[หˆbษชdษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

auction

The act of making a bid at an auction to buy something.

Synonyms

auctioning, offering, purchasing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bidding

Refers to the act of making an offer to buy something, usually at an auction. It can also be used in more general contexts where offers are made, such as project proposals or tenders.

  • The bidding for the antique vase was very competitive.
  • Many companies are bidding for the government contract.
auctioning

Specifically refers to the process of selling goods or property by inviting bids and selling to the highest bidder. Often used in organized sales events.

  • The auctioning of the rare painting attracted a lot of attention.
  • They will be auctioning off old office furniture next week.
offering

Used in situations where a proposal or suggestion is made. It can refer to presenting something for acceptance or rejection, such as goods, services, or job positions.

  • They are offering a discount on all purchases this month.
  • He is offering his services as a freelancer.
purchasing

Refers to the act of buying goods or services. It is a general term used in everyday transactions as well as in business contexts.

  • She is purchasing a new car.
  • The company is interested in purchasing software licenses.

Examples of usage

  • He won the painting with a high bidding price.
  • Her bidding at the auction was unsuccessful.
Context #2 | Noun

command

An authoritative order or command.

Synonyms

command, instruction, order.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bidding

This term is often used in formal or authoritative settings, to show that someone is carrying out the wishes or directives of someone else.

  • He was acting at the king's bidding
  • She followed her boss's bidding without question
command

Use this word in situations where someone is giving a directive that must be followed, often in a military or strict context. It implies authority and control.

  • The general issued a command to the troops
  • She commands respect with her leadership skills
order

This term is often used when someone with authority gives a directive that is expected to be followed. It can be used in both formal and informal settings and can sometimes have a negative connotation if it implies force or lack of choice.

  • The manager gave an order to finish the project by Friday
  • She ordered him to leave immediately
instruction

Instructions are usually given in contexts where step-by-step guidance or directions are necessary. This word is common in educational, technical, or procedural settings.

  • Please follow the instructions in the manual
  • The teacher provided clear instructions for the homework

Examples of usage

  • He followed his boss's bidding without question.
  • Her bidding was clear and direct.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Economics

  • In auction houses, bidders compete by increasing their offers until the highest price is settled.
  • Bidding can also occur online, where multiple people can place offers in real-time, leading to dynamic price changes.
  • There are different types of bidding models, such as sealed bids where offers are hidden until a specific time.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of bidding is popularized in reality shows where contestants bid on prizes.
  • Movies often depict high-stakes auctions featuring rare items, adding drama to the act of bidding.
  • Famous auctions include Christieโ€™s and Sothebyโ€™s, where celebrities and collectors often participate.

Competitions

  • In some sports, teams may use a bidding process to acquire players, similar to an auction.
  • Bidding wars can occur in real estate, leading to unexpected prices for houses as buyers compete.
  • In the tech industry, companies might bid for patents or inventions during corporate sales.

Psychology

  • The psychology behind bidding can involve feelings of competition and the excitement of winning.
  • Bidders may experience a phenomenon called 'winner's curse' when they bid too much and regret it afterward.
  • Emotions like thrill can drive individuals to bid higher than they intended, reflecting psychological biases.

Origin of 'bidding'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'bycgan', which means to 'buy'.
  • It has roots in the German word 'bieten', meaning 'to offer'.
  • The shift from buying to the act of making an offer reflects the evolution in trade practices.

The word 'bidding' has its origins in Old English, where 'biddan' meant 'to ask, demand, or pray'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the act of offering a price for something at an auction. The concept of bidding has been an integral part of trade and commerce for centuries, with auctions being used to determine the value of goods and services. Today, bidding is not only associated with auctions but also with giving commands or orders.


See also: bid, bidder, outbid, underbid.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,726 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.