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Recreational Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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recreational

[ˌrɛkrɪˈeɪʃ(ə)n(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

activities

Relating to or denoting activity done for enjoyment when one is not working.

Synonyms

amusement, entertainment, leisure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recreational

Used when referring to activities done for relaxation or enjoyment, typically outdoors or physical activities.

  • She joined a recreational soccer league to stay active on weekends
  • They went to the mountains for some recreational hiking
leisure

Used to describe free time or the activities one chooses to do when not working or engaged in obligations, often implying relaxation.

  • In his leisure time, he enjoys reading and gardening
  • They spent a leisurely afternoon at the park
entertainment

Used when referring to activities or events designed to provide enjoyment to an audience, such as movies, shows, or concerts.

  • They attended the local theater for an evening of entertainment
  • Watching movies is her favorite form of entertainment
amusement

Used in contexts where the activity provides fun or light-hearted enjoyment, often involving games, rides, or playful experiences.

  • The children spent the day at the amusement park riding roller coasters
  • His jokes were a constant source of amusement for his friends

Examples of usage

  • He joined a recreational soccer league for fun.
  • The resort offers various recreational activities such as hiking and swimming.
Context #2 | Noun

facilities

A place or establishment where people can take part in recreational activities.

Synonyms

center, facility, venue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recreational

As already covered, this word refers to activities or spaces designated for leisure and enjoyment.

  • The city organizes many recreational programs for children during the summer.
center

This term is used to describe a place that serves as a focal point where certain activities or services are provided. It can be applied to community centers, sports centers, or cultural centers.

  • The community center offers various classes and workshops for all ages.
  • She goes to the fitness center every morning to work out.
facility

This term is broader and more general, referring to buildings or places where specific services are provided. It is often used for both recreational and non-recreational contexts, including healthcare and industrial facilities.

  • The new healthcare facility provides excellent services to the community.
  • The sports facility includes a gym, swimming pool, and several tennis courts.
venue

This term is typically used to refer to a location where events, especially public or formal ones, take place. It can be a concert hall, conference center, or sports stadium.

  • The concert will be held at a famous venue downtown.
  • They chose a beautiful venue for their wedding.

Examples of usage

  • The community center has a recreational center with a gym and a pool.
  • The city park has recreational facilities for families to enjoy.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Engaging in recreational activities can significantly reduce stress and improve mental health.
  • Studies have shown that spending time on hobbies enhances creativity and problem-solving skills.
  • Regular leisure activities contribute to overall happiness and life satisfaction.

Sociology

  • Recreational activities can create social bonds, allowing people to connect and build friendships.
  • Different cultures have unique recreational activities that reflect their values and social norms.
  • Access to recreational spaces is often linked to community health and socioeconomic status.

Pop Culture

  • The rise of video games as a form of recreation has transformed entertainment, creating a vast global community.
  • Reality TV shows often highlight recreational competitions, showcasing popular activities like cooking or adventure sports.
  • Festivals and events centered around arts, music, and sports are major recreational experiences celebrated worldwide.

History

  • In ancient Greece, public recreational practices included athletic competitions like the Olympics.
  • Victorian society encouraged recreational activities such as lawn games and excursions as a reaction to urbanization.
  • The creation of national parks in the 19th century promoted outdoor recreation as a way to connect with nature.

Origin of 'recreational'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'recreatio', meaning restoration or refreshment.
  • It first entered English usage in the late 14th century, originally related to health and well-being.
  • Over time, it evolved to include various fun activities and leisure pursuits.

The word 'recreational' originated from the verb 'recreate', which means to refresh or restore. The term evolved to encompass activities or facilities used for relaxation and enjoyment. It has been used in English since the 15th century, emphasizing the importance of leisure and fun in daily life.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,123 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.