gang
The word carries a heavy duality in modern English. In casual conversation, it often evokes a sense of camaraderie, loyalty, and tight-knit friendship among peers. It suggests a social bond that provides a sense of belonging and shared identity. Conversely, in legal or journalistic contexts, the word shifts toward a menacing tone. It implies a clandestine structure, shared aggression, and a collective effort to bypass the law. This creates a tension between the warmth of a "friend group" and the danger of a "criminal syndicate."
Countable when referring to a specific organized group of people, such as a street gang or a work gang.
Meanings
A group of people who associate together, often for a specific purpose or shared activity.
"a gang of teenagers hanging out at the mall"
An organized group of criminals who work together to commit illegal acts.
"the police arrested a gang of car thieves"
A group of laborers working together on a specific task.
"a gang of railway workers repairing the tracks"
To group together for a common, often malicious, purpose.
"they ganged up on the new student"
To associate with a particular group of people.
"he started ganging with the local rebels"