Vocabulary Spotlight

Beholding

Part of Speech: Verb (present participle of “behold”)

Definition: The act of seeing or observing something remarkable or awe-inspiring.

“The tourists spent hours beholding the splendor of the ancient temple.”

Pronunciation

[bih-hohl-ding]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Observing
Watching
Viewing
Gazing
Admiring

Antonyms

Ignoring
Disregarding
Neglecting
Overlooking
Forgetting

Related Words

Perception
Appreciation

Word Origin

“Beholding” originates from the Old English “behealdan,” meaning to “hold, keep, or observe.” It evolved to signify the act of seeing something significant.

Word Family

Verb: Behold – To see or observe.

Present Participle: Beholding – The act of observing.

Noun: Beholder – One who observes.

Mnemonics

Think of “be” + “holding” – holding something in view or sight to admire or observe.

Industry-specific Usage

Tourism

In tourism, visitors spend time “beholding” landmarks or natural wonders, such as waterfalls or historical sites.

Art

In art appreciation, “beholding” a painting or sculpture implies deeply observing and appreciating it.

Science

In science, beholding may refer to the close examination of specimens or phenomena to gather insights.

In Context

“Beholding” often implies a profound or extended act of viewing, typically for things considered remarkable or awe-inspiring, like nature scenes or artistic creations.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which of the following is closest in meaning to “Beholding”?

Forgetting
Disregarding
Observing
Neglecting

“Observing” is correct as “beholding” implies seeing or watching something closely.

2. Fill in the blank: The scientists were _______ the newly discovered planet through their telescopes.

beholding
ignoring
forgetting
overlooking

“Beholding” is correct as it implies that they were observing the planet with focus.

3. In which context might “beholding” be appropriately used?

Ignoring a sign
Disregarding advice
Forgetting to do something
Looking at a famous painting

“Looking at a famous painting” fits, as “beholding” suggests observing something with admiration.