gang
word
Definition
A gang is a group of people who spend time together or work together. It is often used for an organized group involved in crime, but in informal English it can also mean a casual group of friends.
Usage & Nuances
The criminal meaning is usually the strongest and most common in news or serious contexts: 'a street gang', 'a gang member'. In casual speech, 'the whole gang' can mean all your friends or family. Be careful: calling a normal group a 'gang' can sound playful, but in some contexts it may sound negative or rough.
Example Sentences
The police arrested three members of the gang.
basic
He got mixed up with a bad gang when he was a teenager.
natural
That gang controls this part of the city.
basic
I went to the park with the gang after school.
basic
We should get the whole gang together for dinner this weekend.
natural
Looks like the gang is finally back together.
natural