B2nouninformal5K

Gang

UK /["/ɡæŋ/"]/US /["/ɡæŋ/"]/

Definition

an organized group of criminals

In simple words: A group of people, especially young people, who spend time together and may do bad things.

Examples

  • The gang of thieves was caught by the police during the raid.
  • He is part of a cycling gang that meets every weekend.
  • In the past, that gang was known for its notorious behavior in the city.
  • She found herself a new gang of friends at school.
  • The film depicted the struggles between rival gangs in the urban landscape.
  • Back in the day, my gang used to hang out at the old diner.
  • They organized a gang tournament to showcase their skills.
  • He often refers to his close friends as his gang, even if they aren't troublemakers.

Usage notes

The word 'gang' is often used to refer to groups that engage in criminal or disruptive activities. It's informal and can be used in both positive and negative contexts, but avoid using it in formal situations. 'Gang' can have varying connotations based on context, so be careful when using it.

Grammar pattern

gang + of + people

Memory hint

Think of 'gang' as a 'gangway' of friends, moving together, sometimes into trouble.

Collocations

  • street
  • local
  • armed
  • belong to
  • join
  • attack
  • fight
  • violence
  • in a/​the gang
  • gang of
  • a member of a gang
  • street
  • local
  • armed
  • belong to
  • join
  • attack
  • fight
  • violence
  • in a/​the gang
  • gang of
  • a member of a gang
  • usual
  • gang of
  • one of the gang

Synonyms

  • crew
  • group
  • mob
  • clique
  • band

Antonyms

  • solitude
  • individual

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'gang' with 'group' — 'gang' often implies illegal activities.
  • Using it in a formal context — 'gang' is informal.
  • Not using it to refer to a specific group — be clear on which gang you're talking about.