A1noun1K

Painting

UK /["/ˈpeɪntɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈpeɪntɪŋ/"]/

Definition

a picture that has been painted

In simple words: A picture made with colors on a surface like paper or canvas.

Examples

  • She loves painting landscapes in her free time.
  • The painting on the wall is by a famous artist.
  • He spent the afternoon painting and listening to music.
  • Painting can be a relaxing and creative hobby.
  • She is taking a course on abstract painting techniques.
  • The children's painting displayed their imagination beautifully.
  • He bought a large painting to decorate his living room.
  • Painting often requires patience and practice to improve.
  • After finishing her painting, she felt a sense of accomplishment.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and casual settings, 'painting' can refer to the artwork itself or the act of creating it. In art discussions, it’s considered appropriate; in day-to-day conversations, it’s common to describe hobbies or activities.

Grammar pattern

painting + object (e.g. painting a landscape)

Memory hint

Think of 'paINTing' like you're putting paint on a canvas.

Collocations

  • beautiful
  • fine
  • good
  • series
  • collection
  • exhibition
  • create
  • do
  • execute
  • depict somebody/​something
  • feature somebody/​something
  • portray somebody/​something
  • in a/​the painting
  • painting by
  • painting in
  • acrylic
  • oil
  • watercolour/​watercolor
  • do
  • take up
  • study
  • style
  • technique
  • painting and decorating
  • acrylic
  • oil
  • watercolour/​watercolor
  • do
  • take up
  • study
  • style
  • technique
  • painting and decorating

Synonyms

  • artwork
  • picture
  • illustration
  • canvas
  • masterpiece

Antonyms

  • erasing
  • removing

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'draw' — drawing is different from painting.
  • Using 'paint' as a noun instead of 'painting' for the artwork.
  • Incorrectly saying 'doing a painting' instead of 'painting'.