Gambling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฒ
gambling
[หษกรฆmblษชล ]
Definitions
place
The activity or practice of playing at a game of chance for money or other stakes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gambling |
Commonly refers to the act of risking money or valuables on an event with an uncertain outcome. Often associated with activities like casino games, sports betting, and lotteries. It can have a negative connotation due to potential addiction and financial loss.
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| betting |
Typically used to describe the act of wagering money on the outcome of a specific event, especially sports or races. It is more focused on the action of placing bets and is often used in contexts like sports betting.
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| gaming |
This term is mainly used to refer to playing video games but can also imply gambling in a more formal or regulated setting. The context determines its meaning, but it generally carries a neutral or positive connotation when referring to video games.
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Examples of usage
- He has a gambling addiction.
- Many people enjoy the thrill of gambling in casinos.
- She lost all her savings due to gambling.
problematic
The act or practice of risking the loss of something important by taking a chance or acting recklessly.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gambling |
Used when referring to the act of betting money or valuables on an uncertain outcome. This word is often associated with casinos, lottery, and card games. It can have a negative connotation when implying addiction or financial risk.
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| risking |
Refers to exposing oneself to danger, harm, or loss in a more general sense. It often has a serious tone, implying potential significant consequences.
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| chancing |
Usually implies taking a risk or acting without certainty. It often suggests spontaneity or a lack of careful planning. It can have a slightly positive or adventurous undertone.
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Examples of usage
- His gambling with the company's funds led to bankruptcy.
- Gambling with your health is never a good idea.
general
To play games of chance for money or other stakes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gambling |
Generally used to refer to the activity of playing games of chance for money. It is often associated with casinos, lotteries, and other forms of risk-taking for profit. The word can have a negative connotation due to the potential for addiction and financial loss.
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| bet |
Often used in casual or informal situations where someone places money or an item of value on a particular outcome. It can also be used metaphorically to mean being confident in a specific result.
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| wager |
A more formal or old-fashioned term for placing a bet. It is often used in contexts where a more formal tone is appropriate or in written texts.
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Examples of usage
- He was gambling all night at the casino.
- She gambled away her inheritance.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The practice of betting dates back as far as 3000 BC in ancient China, where gambling games were widely played.
- In ancient Rome, soldiers often gambled on the outcomes of battles, showcasing how risk and chance have always intrigued people.
- Gambling gained significant popularity during the Middle Ages, with dice games being a favorite pastime in Europe.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have various views on gambling; for example, some Indigenous cultures see it as a rite and tradition during gatherings.
- In many countries, gambling is linked to hospitality, where hosting games isnโt just about money but building community.
- Certain religions, like Islam, strictly prohibit gambling, emphasizing moral and ethical considerations over chance.
Psychology
- The phenomenon of 'near misses' in gambling reinforces behavior, making players feel they're close to winning, which can encourage them to play more.
- Gamblers often experience a mix of excitement and anxiety, affecting their decision-making and leading to larger bets.
- The excitement of winning in gambling stimulates the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine, similar to the effects of certain addictive drugs.
Technology
- The rise of online gambling has transformed the industry, allowing people to bet from anywhere with just a click on their devices.
- Advanced algorithms and random number generators are used in online casinos to ensure fairness and unpredictability in games.
- Virtual reality (VR) is emerging as a new frontier for gambling, offering immersive experiences that combine the thrill of real casinos with digital convenience.
Legal Aspects
- Laws regarding gambling vary widely from country to country; some places have very strict regulations, while others have made it entirely legal and regulated.
- The legalization of sports betting in some regions has opened up new opportunities for both fans and gamblers, significantly impacting the economy.
- Many jurisdictions require casinos and gambling establishments to implement measures to prevent addiction and protect vulnerable individuals.
Origin of 'gambling'
The word 'gambling' originates from the Old English word 'gambling', which means to play games of chance for money. The practice of gambling has been around for centuries, with evidence of gambling activities found in ancient civilizations such as the Romans and Greeks. Throughout history, gambling has been both celebrated as a form of entertainment and condemned as a destructive vice. Today, gambling is a multi-billion dollar industry with a wide range of legal and illegal forms of betting and gaming.
See also: gambler.