gymnastics
Definitions
A sport involving exercises that require strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination (floor, beam, rings, vault).
体操运动（自由操、平衡木、吊环、跳马等）。
Elaborate or strained reasoning or maneuvering (figurative, as in 'mental gymnastics').
（比喻）牵强复杂的推理或腾挪（如 mental gymnastics 思维上的诡辩）。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedgymnast + -ics (the field or practice) = the discipline of the gymnast. From Greek gymnos ('naked') via the idea of athletic training. Now a precise sport, but also used figuratively for twisted reasoning ('mental gymnastics').
Root gymnast still carries 4 more wordsUsage Guide
Like physics and mathematics, gymnastics ends in -s but takes a singular verb: 'Gymnastics is a demanding sport.' The figurative 'mental gymnastics' is mildly critical — it suggests reasoning that's too contorted to be honest.
Example Sentences
- 1.
She has trained in gymnastics since she was four years old.
- 2.
Gymnastics requires incredible strength and balance.
- 3.
Defending that claim took some serious mental gymnastics.