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Tidying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงน
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tidying

[หˆtaษชdiล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

keeping things in order

Tidying is the act of organizing and cleaning a space to make it neat and orderly. It involves putting things back in their designated places, decluttering, and ensuring everything is tidy and presentable.

Synonyms

cleaning, organizing, straightening.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tidying

Refers to making a space neater by putting things in their proper places. Used in casual contexts, like everyday household chores.

  • I'm tidying my room before guests arrive
  • She spent the afternoon tidying up her workspace
organizing

Focused on arranging and structuring items systematically. Often used in contexts where order and efficiency are important, like offices or project planning.

  • I need to organize my files before the meeting
  • She enjoys organizing her books alphabetically
cleaning

Involves removing dirt, dust, and stains. Often a more thorough process than tidying, involving physical scrubbing and washing.

  • He spent all day cleaning the kitchen
  • She cleans the house every Saturday
straightening

Refers to making things straight or orderly, often addressing minor disarray. It's less intensive than tidying or cleaning.

  • Can you help me straighten the chairs in the living room? He spent a few minutes straightening the pictures on the wall

Examples of usage

  • Marie Kondo is known for her method of tidying up, which involves only keeping items that spark joy.
  • After tidying the living room, everything looked much more spacious and inviting.
  • She spent the whole weekend tidying her closet and getting rid of clothes she no longer wore.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Perspectives

  • In Japanese culture, tidying is often linked with the practice of 'Ikigai', where a clean space promotes clarity and purpose in life.
  • Marie Kondo, a Japanese organizing consultant, popularized the tidying movement globally with her book 'The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up'.
  • Cleanliness is an important aspect in many cultures, symbolizing respect for oneself and one's environment.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that a tidy environment can lead to improved focus and productivity, as distractions are minimized.
  • Clutter has been shown to increase stress levels, while organizing spaces contributes to a sense of control and well-being.
  • Breaking tasks into smaller tidying steps can make the process less overwhelming and more manageable.

Literature

  • In classic literature, tidy settings often reflect the characters' inner lives, as seen in the contrast between pristine homes and chaotic lives.
  • Authors like Virginia Woolf used tidying as a metaphor for emotional and mental clarity in their narratives.
  • Children's books frequently use tidying as a theme, teaching values of responsibility and care for one's belongings.

Environment

  • Regular tidying plays a crucial role in maintaining environmental sustainability by reducing waste and promoting recycling.
  • Community tidying events often foster social connections while beautifying local areas.
  • Organizing personal spaces can enhance oneโ€™s appreciation for the environment by encouraging mindful consumption.

Origin of 'tidying'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'tidy' comes from the Middle English 'tidy', which means 'neat, clean, or orderly'.
  • Before it became associated with cleaning, 'tidy' had roots in the Old Norse word 'tidig', which meant 'quick or early'.
  • The concept of tidiness has been part of human culture for centuries, reflecting societal values regarding order and cleanliness.

The word 'tidying' originated from the Old English word 'tidian' which meant 'to put in order'. Over time, it evolved to 'tidying' in Modern English, retaining its core meaning of organizing and cleaning. Tidying has always been a fundamental aspect of maintaining a clean and efficient living or working space.

See also: tidiness, tidy, untidily, untidy.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,991, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.