What is connection? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of connection

connectionnoun

/kəˈnɛkʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of connection

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "connection" in English. It's a trickier one than it looks! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sounds:

  • con: Sounds like "cone" – as in, a cone of ice cream. Think "kahn."
  • nec: This is where it gets tricky. It's pronounced like "neck" – as in, the part of your body.
  • tion: This is pronounced like "shun" – as in, the word "sun."

2. Putting it Together:

When you say the whole word, it's roughly: "kahn-neck-shun"

3. Stress:

The emphasis (stress) is on the first syllable: "CON-nec-tion"

4. A Helpful Breakdown with Mouth Movements (Visualize this if it helps):

  • "kahn": Round your lips slightly, like you're about to say "cone."
  • "neck": Move your tongue back, as if you’re about to touch your throat.
  • "shun": Open your mouth wider, and pronounce the "sh" sound.

Resources for Hearing It:

Key takeaway: Focus on separating the word into "kahn-neck-shun" and stressing the first syllable.

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  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Focus on a specific part of the word you find difficult?

Usage and examples with the word connection in English

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

1. Literal Connection (Physical Links)

  • Definition: This is the most straightforward meaning – a link or relationship between things.
  • Examples:
    • “There’s a strong connection between exercise and improved mood.” (A cause-and-effect link)
    • "The wires are connected to form a circuit." (A physical link)
    • "The boat has a connection to the shore." (A physical link across a distance)

2. Social/Personal Connections

  • Definition: Relationships with people; a feeling of belonging or understanding.
  • Examples:
    • "I’m trying to make new connections at the networking event." (Meeting new people)
    • "She has a strong connection with her family." (A close relationship)
    • "He felt a deep connection to the music." (Emotional resonance)
    • “Building positive connections is vital for happiness.” (Forming good relationships)

3. Networking & Professional Connections

  • Definition: In a business context, it refers to relationships for professional advancement.
  • Examples:
    • “Building a good connection with your clients is key to success.”
    • “I need to leverage my professional connections to find a new job.”
    • “She used her connections to get the promotion.”

4. Internet/Technology Connections

  • Definition: A link to the internet or a network.
  • Examples:
    • "I lost my internet connection." (A disruption in the internet link)
    • “The new router provides a faster connection.” (Increased speed)
    • "They need a secure connection to the server."

5. Figurative Connections (Associations & Relationships)

  • Definition: This is where "connection" gets really interesting. It can describe a feeling of being linked to something or someone, often without a direct physical or logical link. It's about a sense of understanding, resonance, or belonging.
  • Examples:
    • “There's a strange connection between that book and my life.” (A feeling of resonance)
    • "I felt a sudden connection with the stranger I met." (An unexpected and powerful feeling of understanding)
    • “She has a connection to her heritage.” (A sense of belonging and identification)

6. "Connection" as a Verb

  • Definition: To link or join.
  • Examples:
    • “Please connect the two wires.”
    • “I want to connect with you on LinkedIn.” (to establish a professional link)

Tips for Using "Connection" Effectively:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "connection" always depends on the context.
  • Synonyms: Consider using synonyms to add nuance: link, relationship, association, bond, tie, rapport, familiarity.
  • Don't overuse it: While a powerful word, using "connection" too frequently can make your writing feel less precise.

Resources for Further Learning:

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

  • What kind of writing are you doing? (e.g., casual conversation, academic essay, business report, etc.)
  • Can you give me a sentence or phrase where you're trying to use "connection"? I can then help you refine it.

Synonyms for the word connection

Idioms of the word connection

in connection with somebody/something
for reasons connected with somebody/something
  • A man has been arrested in connection with the murder of the teenager.
  • I am writing to you in connection with your recent job application.
in this/that connection
(formal)for reasons connected with something recently mentioned

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