Mountaineering: meaning, definitions and examples

Used for the sport or activity of climbing mountains, involving diverse skills including rock climbing, ice climbing, and hiking. It often entails multi-day excursions and severe conditions.

• Mountaineering requires a lot of preparation and physical fitness.
• She took up mountaineering after her first trip to the Alps.

A broad term that encompasses various forms of ascending, such as rock climbing, bouldering, and ice climbing. Can be done indoors or outdoors, and doesn't necessarily involve mountains.

• Rock climbing at the local gym has become a popular way to stay fit.
• She enjoys climbing because it challenges both her body and mind.

Refers specifically to the style of mountain climbing in the Alps or similar mountainous regions, typically involving technical climbing and often considered more pure and challenging.

• Alpinism is not just about reaching the summit but also about the style in which it is done.
• His passion for alpinism took him to the highest peaks of the European Alps.

Refers to the activity of walking in the hills, generally on designated paths and trails. It is less technical and less extreme than mountaineering or alpinism, often enjoyed as a leisurely or recreational activity.

• Hillwalking is a great way to explore the countryside on weekends.
• They spent the afternoon hillwalking in the Lake District.

Same as the first entry. Use it as a broad term to refer to climbing high, often snowy mountains.

• Mountaineering in the Himalayas is on his bucket list.
• You need special gear for winter mountaineering.

This term is a bit more general and can be used to describe any activity involving climbing a mountain, without specifying the techniques or methods used.

• They spent their vacation mountain climbing in the Rockies.
• Mountain climbing is a challenging but rewarding hobby.

This term specifically refers to climbing natural rock formations or artificial rock walls using specialized equipment and techniques.

• They spent the weekend rock climbing at the local quarry.
• Rock climbing requires a lot of upper body strength and concentration.

This term is used when climbers aim to reach the summits of a specific set of peaks, often as part of a challenge or personal goal.

• Her goal for the year is peak bagging the 14 tallest mountains in the state.
• Peak bagging can be a great way to see different parts of the country.

Best used when referring to activities involving climbing mountains, usually requiring technical skills and specialized equipment.

• John has been mountaineering in the Alps for over a decade.
• Mountaineering requires a high level of physical fitness and training.

Used in contexts where someone is discovering new places or things, often with a sense of investigation or research. It can apply to both physical travel and intellectual inquiry.

• His exploration of the Amazon rainforest uncovered numerous new species.
• Space exploration has led to incredible advancements in technology.

Ideal for describing trips that involve exciting, often physically challenging activities in natural environments, such as hiking, rafting, or safari.

• They are planning an adventure travel vacation to Costa Rica, including zip-lining and white-water rafting.
• For those seeking adrenaline, adventure travel experiences like bungee jumping and skydiving are perfect.

Refers to any kind of activity performed outside, often for leisure, including hiking, fishing, or bird-watching. It’s a broad term encompassing various activities in nature.

• She loves participating in outdoor pursuits like camping and kayaking during the summer.
• Outdoor pursuits can be a great way to relax and connect with nature.