lightening (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/lʌɪtənɪŋ/

Meaning and Usage

"Lightening" is primarily used as a noun referring to the phenomenon of illumination, parallel to "lightning," which pertains to the discharge of electricity in the atmosphere. However, "lightening" (with an "e") can sometimes refer to the act of making something lighter in weight or color, particularly in contexts such as hair or fabric.

Frequency of Use: "Lightening" is less commonly used than its counterpart "lightning." It is often encountered in discussions about color, fashion, or even changes in mood and tone rather than being a frequent topic in casual oral speech. It is more common in written contexts, especially in literature and discussions pertaining to aesthetics or design.

Example Sentences

1. The artist decided on lightening the background to create a brighter atmosphere.
   Искусствовед решил осветлить задний план, чтобы создать более яркую атмосферу.

2. Lightening her hair made her look more vibrant and youthful.
   Осветление её волос сделало её более яркой и молодой.

3. The lightening changes in the weather were noticeable as the storm approached.
   Изменения в освещении погоды были заметны по мере приближения шторма.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Lightening" is less frequently found in idiomatic expressions compared to "lightning." However, the concept of "lightening" often overlaps with colloquial and literary expressions relating to illumination or mood. Here are a few examples:

1. Lightening the mood

2. She told a joke to lightening the mood during the tense meeting.
   Она рассказала шутку, чтобы осветлить атмосферу во время напряженной встречи.

3. Lightening one's load

4. He found that lightening his load by decluttering his home brought him peace of mind.
   Он обнаружил, что облегчение своего груза, убирая ненужные вещи из дома, принесло ему душевное спокойствие.

5. A lightening experience

6. Traveling abroad for the first time is often a lightening experience that broadens one's perspective.
   Поездка за границу в первый раз часто является ярким опытом, который расширяет кругозор.

Etymology

The term "lightening" stems from the Old English "leoht," meaning "light," combined with the suffix "-en," denoting the process of making something lighter. It relates closely to the word "light," pertaining to brightness and illumination.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Illumination (in the context of light) - Clarifying (when referring to making something simpler) - Lightening (as in reducing weight)

Antonyms: - Darkening (in the context of light) - Heaviness (when referring to weight or emotionally burdensome situations)

In summary, "lightening" can signify both a change in illumination and the act of reducing weight or intensity, while not being as frequently used as some other related terms.