Surfing: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for the activity of riding waves, using a surfboard or similar tool. It is the most commonly used word when referring to the sport as a whole.

• I love surfing early in the morning when the waves are perfect.
• We watched a surfing competition at the beach yesterday.

Can be used to refer to surfing but sounds more poetic or descriptive. It can apply to any activity where waves are ridden, not strictly surfing.

• Wave riding gives you an amazing feeling of freedom.
• Many people enjoy wave riding as a way to connect with the ocean.

Less commonly used; specifically refers to the act of riding waves on a surfboard. Might sound a bit outdated or formal.

• He started surfboarding when he was just a child.
• They spent their vacation surfboarding in Hawaii.

Typically used when casually looking through content on the internet without a specific goal. It implies a more relaxed and aimless activity.

• He spent the evening surfing the web for funny videos.
• She enjoys surfing through different travel blogs.

Used when looking through information or items, either online or in physical locations, without a specific target or purpose. It implies a light, non-committal search.

• She was just browsing in the bookstore, not really looking to buy anything.
• He spent an hour browsing through online job postings.

Implies a more in-depth search or investigation, often with the intent of discovering new information or understanding something better. It gives a sense of curiosity and purpose.

• They are exploring new software for their project.
• She loves exploring different cultures by traveling to new countries.