Our Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
our
[หaสษr ]
Definitions
in general
belonging to or associated with the speaker and one or more other people previously mentioned or easily identified.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| our |
Use 'our' to show possession when something belongs to a group of people that includes the speaker. It's suitable for a wide range of formal and informal situations.
|
| ourselves |
Use 'ourselves' when the subject and the object of the verb are the same group of people that includes the speaker. It can also be used for emphasis or to reflect on a group action.
|
Examples of usage
- our house is just down the road
- our team won the championship
possession
used to indicate that something belongs to or is associated with the speaker and one or more other people previously mentioned or easily identified.
Examples of usage
- our cat is very playful
- our parents are coming to visit
history
a title or form of address given to a reigning monarch.
Examples of usage
- our Queen Elizabeth II
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Sociolinguistics
- The way people use 'our' can vary greatly based on cultural backgrounds and regional dialects.
- In some cultures, 'our' may extend to include larger communities, like neighborhoods or countries, affecting social identity.
- Group identity is often reinforced through inclusive language like 'our', fostering unity among members.
Psychology
- Using inclusive terms like 'our' can enhance feelings of belonging and reduce social anxiety in group settings.
- Research suggests that people who feel a sense of 'our' are more likely to engage in cooperative behaviors.
- The feeling of ownership, indicated by 'our', strengthens interpersonal relationships and community ties.
Literature
- Many authors have used 'our' as a way to create a connection between the reader and the community within their narratives.
- In poetry, the use of 'our' can evoke collective emotions and shared experiences.
- The term often surfaces in literary works that emphasize themes of unity and collaboration among characters.
Pop Culture
- Expressions like 'our generation' reflect collective identity and cultural experiences shared by a specific age group.
- Songs and movies frequently utilize 'our' to foster a sense of belonging among audiences, making them feel part of something bigger.
- Popular social movements often include language that speaks to 'our rights' or 'our voice', emphasizing collective action.
Origin of 'our'
Main points about word origin
- 'Our' comes from the Old English word 'ลซre', which was used to indicate possession.
- Language evolution shows 'our' has shaped the way we communicate belonging over centuries.
- The usage of possession in language often reflects cultural notions of community and belonging.
The word 'our' originated from Middle English 'oure', which came from Old English 'ลซre', ultimately deriving from the Proto-Germanic word 'unser'. It has been used in English for centuries to indicate possession or association with a group of people. The pronoun 'our' is essential in English grammar to show possession or belonging in a collective sense.