arena
A level area surrounded by seats used for public entertainment or sports, or more metaphorically, a sphere of intense activity, competition, or conflict. It often refers to a public stage where significant events, particularly political or social debates, take place.
Examples
3 of 5Thousands of fans gathered at the arena to watch the championship game.
Thousands of fans gathered at the arena to watch the championship game.
The candidate has spent over twenty years in the political arena.
The candidate has spent over twenty years in the political arena.
We're heading to the local arena for the concert tonight.
We're heading to the local arena for the concert tonight.
Word Family
Memory Tip
The word comes from the Latin word for 'sand,' which was used to soak up blood in gladiatorial combat; think of an arena as a place where 'battles' (even verbal ones) occur.
Quick Quiz
After years of working behind the scenes, the activist finally decided to enter the political ___ and run for office.
Correct!
The correct answer is: arena
Examples
Thousands of fans gathered at the arena to watch the championship game.
everydayThousands of fans gathered at the arena to watch the championship game.
The candidate has spent over twenty years in the political arena.
formalThe candidate has spent over twenty years in the political arena.
We're heading to the local arena for the concert tonight.
informalWe're heading to the local arena for the concert tonight.
The research findings sparked a debate in the academic arena regarding ethical standards.
academicThe research findings sparked a debate in the academic arena regarding ethical standards.
Entering the global arena requires a robust strategy and significant investment.
businessEntering the global arena requires a robust strategy and significant investment.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
enter the arena
to start competing or participating in a specific public activity
arena rock
rock music designed to be played in large stadiums or arenas
the global arena
the world stage, especially regarding international politics or business
Often Confused With
'Area' is a general word for a part of a place or a subject, while 'arena' specifically implies a venue for public spectacle or a sphere of intense competition.
Usage Notes
At the C1 level, prioritize using 'arena' metaphorically to describe fields of human activity, such as politics, law, or business, rather than just physical buildings.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'area' when the more specific and competitive connotation of 'arena' is needed in a formal context.
Memory Tip
The word comes from the Latin word for 'sand,' which was used to soak up blood in gladiatorial combat; think of an arena as a place where 'battles' (even verbal ones) occur.
Word Origin
Derived from Latin 'harena', meaning 'sand-strewn place of combat'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In American culture, 'arena rock' refers to a specific era of high-production 1970s and 80s music meant for massive venues.
Quick Quiz
After years of working behind the scenes, the activist finally decided to enter the political ___ and run for office.
Correct!
The correct answer is: arena
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