What is conclude? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of conclude

concludeverb

/kənˈkluːd/
Definition & pronunciation of conclude

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "conclude" in English. It's a tricky one for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Phonetic Transcription (for accuracy):

  • /kənˈkluːd/ (This is the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA)

2. How to Say It Step-by-Step:

  • “con”: Pronounced like the word "cone." It's a short, clear "kuh" sound. (kuh)
  • “clude”: This is where it gets a bit more complex. It's not like "clue" (like in a puzzle).
    • “cl”: Pronounced like “kl” - as in “clock.”
    • “oo”: Make a long "oo" sound, like in the word "moon" or "food." (oo)
    • “d”: Pronounced as a regular “d” sound. (d)

3. Putting it Together:

Say it slowly at first: "Kuh-n cloo-d."

Then, gradually speed up while focusing on the sounds: "Kuh-nˈkluːd" (The stress is on the second syllable – “klu”).

4. Tips for Getting it Right:

  • The "oo" sound is key: Most people struggle with this. Really elongate the "oo" sound.
  • Don't say "clue": This is a very common mistake.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced by a native speaker. Here are a few resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "conclude" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/conclude/ – This website has pronunciations by many different native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce conclude" on YouTube.

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

  • Are you a complete beginner to English, or do you have some experience?

Usage and examples with the word conclude in English

Let's break down how to use the word "conclude" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances.

1. Core Meaning: To Form a Judgment or Opinion

At its most basic, "conclude" means to reach a decision or judgment after considering something. It’s about arriving at a firm belief or opinion.

  • Example: “After reading all the evidence, the jury concluded that the defendant was guilty.” (They formed an opinion about the defendant's guilt.)
  • Example: "I concluded that he was lying based on his inconsistent story." (I reached a judgment based on the information.)

2. To Finish or End Something (Especially a Speech or Writing)

"Conclude" is also frequently used to describe the action of bringing something to a close – usually a speech, presentation, essay, or argument.

  • Example: “The speaker concluded his presentation with a call to action.” (He finished the presentation.)
  • Example: “The article concluded with a summary of the key findings.” (The article ended with a summary.)
  • Example: "I concluded my letter with a polite expression of thanks." (I finished the letter.)

3. To Determine or Figure Out (Often Based on Evidence)

This usage is similar to the first, but often implies a more investigative process.

  • Example: “The detectives concluded that the robbery was carried out by an inside job.” (They figured out the cause of the robbery based on the evidence.)
  • Example: “Scientists concluded that climate change is primarily caused by human activity.” (They determined the cause of climate change through research.)

Key Phrases & Constructions:

  • Conclude that…: This is the most common construction. "I conclude that..." or "We conclude that..."
  • Conclude with…: Used when referring to finishing something. "He concluded with a powerful statement."
  • In conclusion…: A common transitional phrase used at the end of paragraphs or essays to summarize points. "In conclusion, the data clearly supports our hypothesis."

Synonyms:

  • Decide
  • Determine
  • Judge
  • Resolve
  • Figure out
  • Find out
  • Finish
  • End

Tips for Using "Conclude" Correctly:

  • Consider the context: Think about whether you're forming an opinion, ending something, or determining something.
  • Use it with "that": "I conclude that..." is generally preferred for stating a judgment.
  • Be clear: Make sure your sentence clearly indicates what you're concluding about.

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

  • What kind of writing are you working on? (e.g., academic essay, letter, email, speech)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word conclude

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