Ongoing - English Definition & Meaning

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Definition

'Ongoing' describes something that is currently happening and continuing to develop. It emphasizes the continuous nature of an event or process. Think of a marathon 🏃‍♀️: it's an ongoing event with no clear end in sight at the start. It’s different from something that's 'finished' or 'completed.' It suggests progress and evolution over time, like an ongoing discussion in a group project. It implies a sense of movement or development.

Etymology

The word 'ongoing' is a combination of the prefix 'on-' and the verb 'going.' 'On-' in this context means 'in progress' or 'continuing.' 'Going' refers to the action of proceeding or moving forward. The term emphasizes the continuous nature of an event or activity. It's a relatively modern word, reflecting the increasing focus on processes and continuous development in contemporary language. The word has its roots in the everyday understanding of forward movement.

Related Words

Examples

  • "The investigation is ongoing, and more details will be released later."
  • "The construction of the new school building is ongoing."
  • "The discussion about climate change is an ongoing global effort."
  • "Her passion for music is an ongoing source of inspiration."

Anecdote / Story

Imagine the 'Harry Potter' series. The battle against Voldemort was an ongoing conflict, stretching across seven books. It wasn't a one-time event, but a continuous struggle with twists, turns, and challenges. Just like an ongoing quest in a video game 🎮, it had various stages and required persistent effort. This mirrors any long-term goal or project you might be tackling!

Encouragement

Make 'ongoing' a key part of your vocabulary! It's perfect for describing projects, relationships, and situations that are developing over time. It shows you understand the nuances of duration and progress! 🎉

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