Shared Meaning
Shared Definition & Usage
Describes something that is used, divided, or enjoyed by multiple people or groups at the same time or over a period.
Examples
- "We enjoyed a shared meal at the family gathering."
- "The shared responsibility of the team made the project easier to manage."
- "They lived in a shared apartment while studying abroad."
- "The shared knowledge between the two scientists led to a groundbreaking discovery."
- "The shared experiences of the group bonded them together."
To give or provide something to others for joint use or enjoyment.
Examples
- "She shared her notes with the class to help everyone prepare for the exam."
- "They shared a laugh over a funny joke during the meeting."
- "He shared his lunch with a colleague who had forgotten theirs."
- "The teacher shared some helpful tips on writing essays."
- "They decided to share the costs of the event among the group."
Cultural Context
The word 'shared' comes from the Old English word 'sceared', which meant something divided or allotted. It has evolved in modern English to encompass a broader range of meanings related to cooperation, joint use, and communal experiences. The concept of sharing is deeply embedded in social and cultural norms worldwide, symbolizing cooperation, solidarity, and mutual respect.
The Shared Journey
Story
The Shared Journey
In a small village nestled between towering mountains, there was a tradition that every year, the community would embark on a long trek together. It wasn't just about reaching the destination; it was about the shared experience, the way every person contributed to the journey in their own way. Sarah, a young woman new to the village, was nervous. She had never participated in a trek before, let alone one that required so much cooperation. But her neighbor, Old Man Arthur, a seasoned traveler, had shared stories with her for weeks about how the journey brought people together. On the day of the trek, everyone met in the village square. The children carried small packs of supplies, while the adults shared the weight of the heavier loads. As they walked, they passed down stories, exchanged food, and laughed. Every step was shared, from the hardships of the steep hills to the joy of reaching the summit together. During a rest break, Sarah spoke to Arthur about her doubts. 'I feel like I'm not contributing enough,' she admitted, 'I'm only carrying my pack, and I feel like the others are doing so much more.' Arthur smiled and replied, 'Sarah, the journey is about sharing. Some of us carry the weight, while others share the wisdom. The laughter, the food, the stories—they all become part of the journey, shared by everyone.' By the time they reached the summit, Sarah understood. It wasn't about who did the most, but about the shared effort, the collective experience that bound them together. She looked around at the people, old and young, and felt a deep sense of connection, knowing that the journey was theirs together, shared by all. The trek wasn't just a physical journey; it was a reminder that in life, it's the shared moments that matter most.
Related Words
