collecting

word · lemma: collect

/kəˈɫɛktɪŋ/
kuh-LEK-ting
/kəlˈɛktɪŋ/
kuh-LEK-ting

Definition

The act of bringing things together from different places or over time. It often means keeping similar items as a hobby, but it can also mean gathering things such as money, information, or data.

Usage & Nuances

Often used for hobbies: 'collecting stamps', 'collecting coins'. In formal or work contexts, it commonly means gathering information: 'collecting data'. For money, 'collecting' can mean receiving payments or donations. Don't confuse it with 'gathering', which is broader and often less systematic.

Example Sentences

I started collecting vinyl records during college, and now I have way too many.

natural

The app keeps collecting data in the background unless you turn that setting off.

natural

She's been collecting rent from the tenants since the manager left.

natural

She likes collecting old postcards.

basic

We are collecting information for the school project.

basic

He is collecting money for a local charity.

basic