the action or skill of reading written or printed matter silently or aloud, an occasion at which pieces of literature are read to an audience, an interpretation of a particular situation or feeling

worth reading, read between the lines, have one's nose in a book

light reading, close reading, speed reading

Formal and Informal Expressions of reading

In different contexts, you can replace 'reading' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'perusal, interpretation' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'skimming, scanning' is a commonplace synonym.

reading: Explore its Definition & Usage

reading Definition

1the action or skill of reading written or printed matter silently or aloud
2an occasion at which pieces of literature are read to an audience
3an interpretation of a particular situation or feeling

Using reading: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "reading" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
I enjoy reading books in my free time.
Example
The reading of the will took place in the lawyer's office.
Example
Her reading of the situation was that he was not interested in her.
Example
He gave a reading of his latest poem at the literary festival.

reading Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for reading

Antonyms for reading

Idioms Using reading

worth reading
deserving to be read, interesting or informative
Example
This book is definitely worth reading, it changed my perspective on life.
read between the lines
to understand the hidden or implied meaning in a text or situation
Example
When she said she was too busy to meet, I knew there was more to it - I had to read between the lines.
have one's nose in a book
to be reading a book, especially with great concentration
Example
She always has her nose in a book, even during lunch breaks.

Phrases with reading

light reading
reading material that is easy and entertaining, usually for relaxation
Example
I brought some light reading for the beach vacation.
close reading
a careful and critical analysis of a text, often used in literary studies
Example
The professor assigned a close reading of Shakespeare's sonnets for the next class.
speed reading
a technique of reading quickly by scanning the text and focusing on key words
Example
She learned speed reading to help her finish her assignments faster.

Origins of reading

from Old English 'rǣding', meaning 'the action of reading'

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Summary: reading in Brief

Reading [ˈriːdɪŋ] refers to the act of reading written or printed material, as well as occasions where literature is read aloud. It can also refer to interpreting a situation or feeling. Examples include 'I enjoy reading books in my free time,' and 'He gave a reading of his latest poem at the literary festival.' Phrases like 'light reading' and idioms like 'read between the lines' add nuance to the term.