sailing

word · lemma: sail

/ˈseɪɫɪŋ/
SAY-ling
/sˈeɪlɪŋ/
SAY-ling

Definition

Sailing is the activity or sport of traveling on water in a boat moved mainly by the wind. It can also refer more generally to a journey by sea.

Usage & Nuances

Most commonly a noun for the sport or activity: 'go sailing', 'sailing lessons', 'a sailing boat'. In broader or literary use, it can mean sea travel: 'The ship is ready for sailing'. Learners often confuse it with 'sail' (the cloth on the boat / the verb).

Example Sentences

We went sailing on the lake last Sunday.

basic

I’ve always wanted to try sailing, but I get nervous on open water.

natural

The best part of sailing is how quiet everything feels once the engine is off.

natural

If the weather holds, we might go sailing again this weekend.

natural

Sailing is her favorite summer sport.

basic

They are taking sailing lessons this month.

basic