Gain
/ɡeɪn/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo get something beneficial or desirable.
/ɡeɪn/
To obtain or secure something desirable.
She gained a new perspective on life after traveling.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing a game and you earn points. Gaining means getting those points or something you want, like getting a good grade on a test or adding something useful to your team.
👶 For kids: To get or have more of something.
More Examples
He gained valuable experience working as a volunteer.
The company gained market share with their innovative product.
How It's Used
"The company gained a significant profit this quarter."
"The candidate hoped to gain support from undecided voters."
"She gained weight after the pregnancy."
An increase or improvement; something you get as a result of effort or chance.
/ɡeɪn/
An increase in something; an advantage.
The company reported a large gain in revenue.
💡 Simply: A gain is like when you level up in a video game. It means you've made progress, gotten better, or achieved something good, like getting a promotion.
👶 For kids: Something good that you get.
More Examples
The team celebrated a hard-fought gain on the field.
The new program promises a gain in efficiency.
How It's Used
"The stock market saw a significant gain today."
"The team celebrated their hard-fought gain."
"The therapy provided a substantial gain in his mental health."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
gain ground
To make progress or become more popular or successful.
"The environmental movement is gaining ground."
gain on
To get closer to someone or something that is ahead of you.
"The runner was gaining on the leader in the final lap."
From Old Norse *geina, gagna* ("to be useful, profitable"), from Proto-Germanic *gainōną* (“to gain, profit”).
The word "gain" has been used since the 13th century, primarily to denote the obtaining of something, whether through effort, luck, or exchange.
Memory tip
Imagine a scale tipping in your favor. You've GAINed something valuable.
Word Origin
"To be useful, profitable"