mugging

Everyday

1. A mugging is an attack in a public place where someone is robbed, often with threats or violence. tree →
2. Mugging is the -ing form of «mug» (to rob). tree →
3. (informal) Mugging (for the camera) means pulling silly faces. tree →
4. (informal, UK) Mugging up means studying hard quickly, cramming. tree →

In the lessons

In news and safety lessons: stay in groups, stay in lit places, give up your phone rather than fight, and tell an adult or the police. In everyday talk: mugging for photos, mugging up for a test.

Examples

• There was a mugging near the station last night. tree →
• The police are looking for the people behind the mugging. tree →
• If someone tries mugging you, let them take your things and get away safely. tree →
• He was mugging for the camera. tree →
• I'm mugging up on my spellings. tree →
• Muggings are less common in busy, well-lit streets. tree →

Note

Countable noun: a mugging, muggings. The person who does it is a mugger. Spelling: double g. Your safety matters more than your phone.