What is cap? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of cap

capnoun

/ˈkap/
Definition & pronunciation of cap

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "cap" in English. There are actually two common pronunciations, and it depends on what you're referring to:

1. "Cap" as in a hat (noun):

  • Pronunciation: /kæp/
  • Sound: It sounds like "cape" or "cape" with a short "a" sound (like in "cat").
  • Breakdown:
    • "k" – a hard "k" sound like in "kite"
    • "æ" – a short "a" sound like in "cat" or "hat"
    • "p" – a standard "p" sound

2. "Cap" as in to cover something (verb):

  • Pronunciation: /kɑp/
  • Sound: It sounds like "cahp" – a bit more of a "a" sound, like in "father."
  • Breakdown:
    • "k" – a hard "k" sound like in "kite"
    • "ɑ" – a broad "a" sound similar to the "a" in "father" or "car"
    • "p" – a standard "p" sound

Here’s a quick way to remember:

  • Hat: /kæp/ (like "cape")
  • Cover: /kɑp/ (like "cahp")

Resources for Hearing the Pronunciation:

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Usage and examples with the word cap in English

Let's break down how to use the word "cap" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a breakdown categorized by its common uses:

1. As a Headwear (Most Common)

  • Definition: This is the most familiar meaning – a covering for the head.
  • Examples:
    • "He wore a baseball cap."
    • "She's knitting a warm winter cap."
    • "I need a cap for my water bottle."

2. Top or Closure (Literal)

  • Definition: A covering for the top of something – a bottle, a jar, a piping, etc.
  • Examples:
    • "Make sure to put the cap on the bottle tightly."
    • "The faucet has a rubber cap to prevent leaks."
    • "The nozzle has a plastic cap."

3. Slang – Claiming or Exaggeration (Very Common)

  • Definition: This is a very important usage, especially in informal settings. It means to confidently state something that isn't necessarily true, to boast, or to make a bold, often unbelievable, claim. It's similar to "lie," "fib," or "bullshit," but can be more playful.
  • Examples:
    • "He said he won the lottery, but I think he’s wearing a cap." (I don’t believe he actually won.)
    • "Don't cap, that was the worst movie ever!" (Don't lie about it being terrible.)
    • "Seriously? You're saying you can run a marathon? Cap!" (I doubt you can.)
  • Important Note: This usage is increasingly common and youth-oriented.

4. As a Verb (Slang – To Claim)

  • Definition: To make a bold or dishonest claim. This is directly connected to the slang usage above.
  • Examples:
    • “He capped it by saying he invented the internet.” (He’s exaggerating wildly.)
    • “Don’t cap on me, tell me the truth.” (Don't lie to me.)

5. (Less Common) – A Rounded End

  • Definition: A rounded or pointed end (often of a tool or object).
  • Examples:
    • "The shovel has a wooden cap on the handle."

Key Considerations & How to Use It Correctly:

  • Context is Crucial: Pay close attention to the situation and who is speaking to understand what "cap" means. If someone is talking about baseball, they likely mean headwear. If they’re talking about a bottle, they mean the closure.
  • Slang is Informal: "Cap" as a slang term is very informal. Avoid using it in formal writing or speech unless you're intentionally aiming for a casual tone.
  • Be Aware of Tone: When using "cap" as slang, be mindful of your tone. It can be playful, skeptical, or even a little confrontational.

Resources for More Information:

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  • In what context are you trying to use the word "cap"? (e.g., a conversation with friends, a writing assignment, etc.)

Synonyms for the word cap

Idioms of the word cap

a feather in your cap
an action that you can be proud of
    go cap in hand (to somebody)
    to ask somebody for something, especially money, in a very polite way that makes you seem less important
    • There’s no way he’ll go cap in hand to his brother.
    if the cap fits (, wear it)
    (informal)if you feel that a remark applies to you, you should accept it and take it as a warning or criticism
    • I didn’t actually say that you were lazy, but if the cap fits…

    Practice with vocabulary cap

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. She wore a stylish ______ to the outdoor event to protect herself from the sun.
    2. The bottle was sealed with a tight-fitting ______ to prevent spills.
    3. The company decided to ______ the maximum number of participants at 100.
    4. He adjusted the ______ on the pen to make writing more comfortable.

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

    1. What is the top part of a bottle called?
      A. Cap
      B. Lid
      C. Base
      D. Handle

    2. Which word can describe limiting something to a maximum amount?
      A. Cap
      B. Reduce
      C. Expand
      D. Increase

    3. What is a common accessory people wear on their heads?
      A. Gloves
      B. Cap
      C. Scarf
      D. Shoes

    4. Which of the following is used to cover a container?
      A. Strap
      B. Cover
      C. Lid
      D. Cap

    5. Which word does NOT belong in this group?
      A. Prevent
      B. Limit
      C. Cap
      D. Encourage

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. The bottle was closed with a lid.
      Rewrite using "cap":
    2. She decided to wear a hat to the park.
      Rewrite using "cap":
    3. The company set a maximum limit on the budget.
      Rewrite using a suitable replacement for "cap":

    Answers

    Exercise 1:

    1. cap
    2. cap
    3. limit
    4. clip

    Exercise 2:

    1. A. Cap, B. Lid
    2. A. Cap
    3. B. Cap
    4. B. Cover, C. Lid, D. Cap
    5. D. Encourage

    Exercise 3:

    1. The bottle was closed with a cap.
    2. She decided to wear a cap to the park.
    3. The company set a ceiling on the budget.

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