What is collapse? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of collapse

collapseverb

/kəˈlaps/
Definition & pronunciation of collapse

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "collapse" in English. Here's a breakdown of the sounds and a few tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

  • kōˈlæps

2. Syllable Breakdown:

  • kō - Like "co" in "coat," but with a slightly more open "o" sound.
  • ˈlæps - This is the stressed syllable. "læ" is pronounced like "lap" (as in "lap around"). "ps" is pronounced as a single sound, like "ups".

3. Step-by-Step Pronunciation:

  1. Start with "kō": Make a short, open "o" sound – like in the word "boat."
  2. Move to "læ": Say "lap" - emphasize the “ap” sound.
  3. Finally, “ps”: Pronounce this as a single, quick "ups" sound. Don't separate the "p" and "s."

4. Putting it all together:

It sounds something like: “Koh-LAPSS” (Imagine saying "co-lap-ss")

5. Tips for Accuracy:

  • Emphasis: The emphasis is clearly on the second syllable ("læps").
  • Don't Over-Pronounce: Avoid adding extra "uh" sounds. It should be relatively smooth and connected.
  • Listen to Examples: This is crucial. Here are some resources:
    • Google Search: Search "how to pronounce collapse" on Google. You'll find audio examples from native speakers.
    • Forvo: https://www.forvo.com/word/collapse/ – Forvo has pronunciations from various speakers.
    • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce collapse" - you'll find many videos with clear pronunciations.

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

  • Where are you from? (Pronunciation can vary slightly depending on your native language).

Usage and examples with the word collapse in English

Let's break down how to use the word "collapse" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with lots of different meanings! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. Literal Collapse (Physical Breakdown)

  • Meaning: To suddenly and completely fall or sink to the ground, often due to weakness, illness, or injury.
  • Examples:
    • "The old bridge collapsed under the weight of the truck." (Structural failure)
    • "He collapsed from exhaustion after the marathon." (Loss of physical strength)
    • "She collapsed on the floor, clutching her chest." (Medical emergency)
    • "The building collapsed during the earthquake."

2. Figurative Collapse (Emotional/Mental Breakdown)

  • Meaning: To lose mental or emotional stability; to become overwhelmed and unable to cope. This is a very common use of the word.
  • Examples:
    • "After the devastating news, she started to collapse emotionally." (Feeling overwhelmed with sadness)
    • "He felt his world collapse around him when he lost his job." (Loss of stability and support)
    • "The pressure of the deadline caused her to collapse under the strain." (Mental exhaustion)
    • “He seemed to collapse during the interview, unable to answer simple questions.”

3. Collapse of Systems (Abstract Breakdown)

  • Meaning: The failure of an organization, system, or structure to function properly.
  • Examples:
    • "The Soviet Union collapsed in 1991." (Political and economic system failure)
    • "The housing market collapsed in 2008." (Economic system failure)
    • "The company’s reputation collapsed after the scandal." (Reputational damage)
    • “The old infrastructure collapsed under the increased demand.”

4. To Fall Down (Less Formal)

  • Meaning: Simply to fall to the ground. This is a more casual way to use the word.
  • Examples:
    • "The curtain collapsed onto the stage." (Falling down)
    • "He collapsed in a heap of pillows." (Falling down playfully)

Key Considerations & Related Words:

  • Intensifiers: You can intensify the meaning of “collapse” with words like:

    • Completely: “He completely collapsed.”
    • Suddenly: “She suddenly collapsed.”
    • Utterly: “He utterly collapsed under the pressure.”

  • Synonyms: Depending on the context, consider these synonyms:

    • Fail
    • Crumble
    • Break down
    • Give way
    • Sink

  • Phrases:

    • "Collapse in tears"
    • "Collapse under pressure"
    • "Collapse of authority"

How to Choose the Right Meaning:

Think about the context. Is it about a physical object, an emotion, a system, or a simple fall? The surrounding words will usually give you a clue.

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

  • What is the context in which you want to use the word "collapse"? (e.g., writing a story, discussing a news event, just learning the word?)

Synonyms for the word collapse

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