Sport: meaning, definitions and examples
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sport
[spɔːt ]
Definitions
physical activity
Sport is a physical activity that involves a set of rules or customs. It may be competitive or non-competitive. Sports are played for fun, for exercise, for competition, or for a combination of these reasons.
Synonyms
athletics, exercise, physical activity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sport |
Refers to organized and competitive physical activities that are usually governed by rules and often engaged in by teams or individuals. Commonly associated with enjoyment, entertainment, and professional competition.
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| athletics |
Linked specifically to track and field events, as well as other physically demanding competitive sports. Often used in educational and professional contexts related to high-performance and elite competitions.
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| exercise |
Describes physical activities performed to maintain or improve health and fitness. It generally emphasizes personal health benefits rather than competition.
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| physical activity |
A broad term encompassing any bodily movement that requires energy expenditure. Often used in health, wellness, and medical contexts, focusing on overall activity levels rather than specific exercises.
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Examples of usage
- She enjoys playing sports such as basketball and tennis.
- Participating in sports can improve physical fitness and mental well-being.
engage in physical activity
To sport means to engage in physical activity or exercise, especially in a competitive or organized way. It can also refer to wearing or displaying something proudly or showily.
Synonyms
display, engage in, participate in.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sport |
This term is most commonly used to refer to physical activities or games which often have a competitive element.
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| engage in |
This phrase is used for a formal and broader description of taking part in an activity or being involved in something.
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| participate in |
This phrase describes actively taking part in an activity or event. It has a slightly formal tone and is commonly used in official or organized contexts.
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| display |
Use this word when you want to describe showing skills or abilities openly for others to see. It often has a connotation of showcasing something impressive or noteworthy.
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Examples of usage
- He loves to sport his new running shoes at the gym.
- The athletes will sport their team uniforms during the championship.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'sport' comes from the Old French term 'desporter,' meaning 'to carry away' or 'to amuse.'
- Originally, it referred to any activity that involved fun, including games and outdoor activities.
- In Middle English, the term began to focus on physical activities and competitions.
Cultural Significance
- Sport has played a vital role in many cultures, serving as a way to build community and social cohesion.
- Olympic Games, originating in ancient Greece, symbolize not just competition but also a celebration of athletic prowess.
Psychology
- Participating in sports can boost self-esteem and improve mental health by promoting physical wellness.
- Team sports teach valuable life skills like cooperation, communication, and conflict resolution.
Technology
- Advancements in technology, including video replay and wearable fitness trackers, have transformed how sports are played and analyzed.
- Virtual reality is now being used for training athletes, providing immersive experiences without the physical strain.
History
- Historic records suggest that sports have existed for over 3,000 years, with evidence found in ancient civilizations.
- Traditional indigenous games served as social rituals and community events long before modern sports were formalized.
Translations
Translations of the word "sport" in other languages:
🇵🇹 esporte
🇮🇳 खेल
🇩🇪 Sport
🇮🇩 olahraga
🇺🇦 спорт
🇵🇱 sport
🇯🇵 スポーツ (supōtsu)
🇫🇷 sport
🇪🇸 deporte
🇹🇷 spor
🇰🇷 스포츠 (seupocheu)
🇸🇦 رياضة
🇨🇿 sport
🇸🇰 šport
🇨🇳 运动 (yùndòng)
🇸🇮 šport
🇮🇸 íþrótt
🇰🇿 спорт
🇬🇪 სპორტი (sport'i)
🇦🇿 idman
🇲🇽 deporte