Definition

Noun: 1. Manner of acting or controlling yourself; behavior; conduct: This refers to the way a person behaves or conducts themselves, often implying a pattern of actions or activities. 2. Events or activities that have happened or are happening; proceedings; happenings: This refers to specific occurrences, events, or the general activity in a particular place or situation.

Usage and Examples

• Referring to behavior or conduct:

  • I was shocked by his doings; they were completely out of character. (I was shocked by his behavior.)
  • Her doings in the community have always been above reproach. (Her conduct in the community has always been blameless.)

• Referring to events or activities:

  • There were some strange doings in the old house last night. (There were some strange happenings in the old house.)
  • Tell me all about the doings at the conference. (Tell me all about the proceedings at the conference.)

Advanced Usage

• The word "doings" is often used in informal or narrative contexts to describe a series of actions or events, sometimes with a sense of mystery, excitement, or disapproval.
• It can function as a plural noun that summarizes activities without specifying them individually.
  • The police were called to investigate the doings in the abandoned warehouse.
  • I want no part in your shady doings.

Variants and Related Words

• Doing (noun, singular): An act or deed. Often used in the phrase "to be someone's doing" (to be caused by someone).
  • This mess is your doing.
• Deed (noun): An action that is performed intentionally or consciously. More formal than "doing."
• Activity (noun): A condition in which things are happening or being done.

Synonyms

• Behavior / Conduct (for manner of acting)
• Actions / Affairs / Proceedings / Happenings / Events (for activities/events)

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To have to do with the doings of: To be involved with or related to certain activities.
  • His new job has to do with the doings of the city council.
• Strange doings: Unusual or suspicious events.
  • There have been strange doings in the neighborhood lately.

Noun

1. manner of acting or controlling yourself