beings

word · lemma: being

/ˈbiɪŋz/
BEE-ingz
/bˈiːɪŋz/
BEE-ingz

Definition

Living things or creatures, especially when talking about humans, animals, or imaginary life forms as a group. It is the plural of 'being' and is often used in a general or philosophical way.

Usage & Nuances

Common in formal, literary, scientific, and philosophical contexts more than in casual daily speech. Often appears in phrases like 'human beings', 'living beings', and 'intelligent beings'. Don't confuse it with 'beings' meaning separate people in a very emotional or poetic style.

Example Sentences

All living beings need water.

basic

Human beings can learn many languages.

basic

The movie shows strange beings from another planet.

basic

Sometimes we forget that animals are beings with feelings, not just pets.

natural

If intelligent beings exist elsewhere, I wonder what they are like.

natural

Stories like that remind us how fragile human beings really are.

natural