refereeing
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɪˈfɪərɪŋ/
KK: /rɪˈfɪrɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The act of overseeing a game or competition to ensure that the rules are followed and to make decisions about any disputes.
Example
The refereeing during the match was fair and impartial.
Conversation
Did you see the game last night?
Yeah, it was intense! The refereeing was a bit questionable, though.
I agree, some calls seemed really off.
Exactly! It definitely changed the flow of the game.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
review
judging
oversight
Antonyms
neglect
disregard
indifference
verb
Definition
The action of overseeing a game or match to ensure that the rules are followed.
Example
The refereeing during the soccer match was fair and impartial.
Tense Forms
Past: refereed
Past Participle: refereed
Conversation
Did you see the match last night?
Yeah, the players were really intense!
I think the refereeing was a bit questionable, though.
Root Explanation
Refereeing → It is formed from "refer" (from Latin "referre", meaning to bring back or report) and "-ing" (a suffix used to indicate the action or process of). The word "refereeing" refers to the action of bringing back decisions or reports, particularly in the context of officiating a game or sport.
Memory Tip
Think of 'bringing back' ('refer') decisions during a game, which is what refereeing involves.
Visually Confused Words
freeing
refreshing