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gain

When used as a verb, "gain" usually implies that the thing being obtained is beneficial or helpful. It is more formal than the word "get." In financial contexts, "gain" often refers to an increase in value (like a 'capital gain'), and it is frequently used as an uncountable noun when talking about general progress or profit.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, David is trailing behind in a quarterly review meeting.

Victoria

Cut the buzzwords. What was the actual capital gain on the Q3 portfolio?

David Smith

Just circling back on that now. I'll ping you the exact figure in five.

💡

Victoria uses 'capital gain' (noun) to demand a concrete financial result, cutting through David's corporate jargon. David responds with typical middle-manager phrasing like 'circling back' and 'ping', attempting to buy time because he is intimidated by her directness.

Meanings

verb (transitive)

To obtain or secure something desired, favorable, or advantageous.

"She managed to gain a competitive advantage by studying harder than her peers."

verb (transitive)

To increase in amount, weight, or speed.

"The car continued to gain speed as it headed down the hill."

verb (intransitive)

To move closer to a specific destination or target.

"The hikers slowly gained the summit of the mountain."

noun

An increase in wealth, resources, or value; profit.

"The company reported a significant capital gain at the end of the fiscal year."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026•Report an Error