What is belong? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of belong in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of belong

belongverb

thuộc về, của, thuộc quyền sở hữu

/bɪˈlɒŋ/

Definition & pronunciation of <strong>belong</strong>

Where does the word belong come from?

The word "belong" has its roots in Old English and Old Norse. The Proto-Germanic word "*belgiz" is believed to have been derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*leubh-", which meant "to love" or "to have affection for". In Old English, the word "belangan" meant "to love" or "to be dear", and was used in a variety of contexts, including family relationships and possessions. By the 14th century, the spelling had evolved to "belong", and the meaning expanded to include notions of identity, membership, and connection. In modern English, "belong" is often used to describe a sense of belonging to a group, community, or place, as well as a sense of identity and affiliation. Despite its evolution, the root sense of "belong" remains tied to ideas of love, affection, and connection.

Vocabulary summary belong

typejournalize

meaningbelong to, of, owned by

examplethe power belongs to the people

meaningbelong to (somewhere), be in (somewhere)

examplewhere do these things belong?

examplewhere it belongs

exampleto belong in: (US, US meaning) where

meaningbelonging to, being the duty of; relating to

exampleit belongs to you investigate the matter

typeDefault

meaningbelong

Example of vocabulary belongnamespace

meaning

to be in the right or suitable place

  • Where do these plates belong (= where are they kept)?
  • Are you sure these documents belong together?
  • Several of the points you raise do not belong in this discussion.
  • A person like that does not belong in teaching.
  • The book belongs to my sister.
meaning

to feel comfortable and happy in a particular situation or with a particular group of people

  • I don't feel as if I belong here.

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