What is aware? Pronunciation and usage in English

aware means . Learn how to pronounce and use aware through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of aware

awareadjective

/əˈwɛː/
Definition & pronunciation of aware

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "aware." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /eɪr (rhymes with "air" or "hair")

Here's a more detailed explanation:

  1. "a" - Pronounce it like the "a" in "say" or "day." It's a long "a" sound.
  2. "w" - This one trips people up a lot! The "w" is usually silent in "aware." Don't pronounce it.
  3. "are" - This is where the "air" sound comes in. It’s the same vowel sound as in "air" or "hair." It's a diphthong – meaning it blends two vowel sounds together.

Tips for getting it right:

  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:

  • Practice slowly: Say it repeatedly, focusing on the "air" sound and making sure the "w" is silent.

  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying "aware" and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.

To summarize: Think of it as “air” (like air or hair).

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you more examples of words with the same sound?

Usage and examples with the word aware in English

Let's break down how to use the word "aware" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances. Here's a detailed explanation, broken down into categories and with examples:

1. Basic Meaning: To Have Knowledge or Perception

  • Core Definition: "Aware" means to be conscious of something; to know about it or perceive it. It’s a state of being informed or noticing.

  • Examples:

    • "I was aware of the danger before it happened." (I knew about the danger.)
    • "She was aware of the problems in her marriage." (She recognized and understood the issues.)
    • "He’s aware of the importance of recycling." (He knows it's important.)

2. "Aware Of" vs. "Aware That"

  • "Aware of" focuses on knowing something.

    • "I’m aware of the fact that we're behind schedule." (I know we're behind.)
    • "She’s aware of his reputation." (She knows what people think of him.)

  • "Aware that" emphasizes the recognition of a fact or situation. It's a slightly more formal way to say "aware of."

    • "He was aware that he made a mistake." (He recognized he’d made a mistake.)
    • "They were aware that the meeting was crucial." (They understood the importance of the meeting.)

3. "Being Aware" – Expressing a State of Consciousness

  • You can use "being aware" to describe a state of heightened attention or sensitivity.
    • "He was being aware of the subtle changes in her mood." (He was paying close attention.)
    • "She is being aware of her surroundings while walking alone." (She’s looking out for potential dangers.)

4. More Figurative Uses

  • “Aware of the implications”: Recognizing the possible consequences of something.

    • "Investors need to be aware of the implications of the new regulations."

  • “Aware of one’s own limitations”: Understanding your own boundaries and weaknesses.

    • "It's important to be aware of one's own limitations and not overcommit."

5. Related Words & Phrases

  • Awareness: (noun) – The state of being aware. “Increased awareness of climate change.”
  • Be in the loop: (idiom) – To be informed about something. “Make sure I’m in the loop on the project updates.”
  • Stay informed: – To keep up-to-date with information.

Tips for Using "Aware" Correctly:

  • Consider the Context: The best way to use "aware" depends on what you're trying to express. Are you stating a fact, describing a feeling, or highlighting a realization?
  • Don’t Overuse It: While a useful word, “aware” can sound a little formal. Vary your vocabulary sometimes.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What is the specific context you’re thinking about using “aware” in? (e.g., writing a sentence, a conversation, a specific topic?)

Synonyms for the word aware

Practice with vocabulary aware

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. She was not ________ of the changes happening in the company until it was too late.
  2. It’s important to stay ________ of your surroundings in unfamiliar places.
  3. The teacher reminded the students to be ________ of the deadline for the assignment.
  4. He was completely ________ about the new policy, so he missed the memo.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which word best completes the sentence?
    "Employees must be ________ of the safety protocols in the workplace."
    a) conscious
    b) aware
    c) familiar
    d) alert

  2. Select the most appropriate word for the context:
    "The manager was ________ of the team's concerns and addressed them promptly."
    a) aware
    b) mindful
    c) informed
    d) cautious

  3. Which of these words is NOT a synonym for "aware"?
    a) conscious
    b) oblivious
    c) cognizant
    d) attentive

  4. Choose the correct word:
    "She was ________ of the fact that her decision would impact the entire project."
    a) ignorant
    b) aware
    c) conscious
    d) mindful

  5. Which word fits best in the sentence?
    "The company is ________ of the challenges it faces in the current market."
    a) aware
    b) knowledgeable
    c) familiar
    d) alert

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: "He understood the risks involved in the project."
    Rewrite: "He was aware of the risks involved in the project."

  2. Original: "They did not know about the new regulations."
    Rewrite: "They were not aware of the new regulations."

  3. Original: "The team was conscious of the time constraints."
    Rewrite: "The team recognized the time constraints."

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. aware
  2. aware
  3. mindful
  4. unaware

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) aware
  2. a) aware
  3. b) oblivious
  4. b) aware
  5. a) aware

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. He was aware of the risks involved in the project.
  2. They were not aware of the new regulations.
  3. The team recognized the time constraints.

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