B2noun1K

Hunting

UK /["/ˈhʌntɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈhʌntɪŋ/"]/

Definition

going after and killing wild animals as a sport or for food

In simple words: The activity of looking for and catching animals.

Examples

  • Hunting for food has been a vital practice for many cultures throughout history.
  • The hunting season for deer typically begins in the fall.
  • She enjoys hunting as a way to connect with nature and practice her skills.
  • Hunting can be a controversial topic due to concerns about wildlife conservation.
  • He spent the weekend hunting with friends in the woods.
  • The hunting of endangered species is illegal in many countries.
  • She went hunting for the perfect gift for her friend's birthday.
  • He found himself hunting for answers to his many questions.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. It can refer to sports, subsistence, or wildlife management. Avoid in urban settings or when discussing animal rights negatively.

Grammar pattern

hunting + object

Memory hint

Think of 'hunt' like a detective searching for clues; it's a pursuit.

Collocations

  • big-game
  • deer
  • fox
  • go
  • ban
  • knife
  • rifle
  • ground
  • hunting  of
  • happy hunting ground
  • big-game
  • deer
  • fox
  • go
  • ban
  • knife
  • rifle
  • ground
  • hunting  of
  • happy hunting ground

Synonyms

  • tracking
  • pursuit
  • stalking
  • chasing
  • searching

Antonyms

  • farming
  • cultivation

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'fishing' — hunting refers to land animals, fishing refers to water.
  • Using 'hunt' instead of 'hunting' in continuous tense — e.g., 'I am hunting' not 'I am hunt'.
  • 'Hunting' used as a noun only, forgetting it can also suggest an activity.