What is cousin? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of cousin

cousinnoun

/ˈkʌzn/
Definition & pronunciation of cousin

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "cousin" in English. Here's a breakdown of the sounds and how to put them together:

1. Syllables:

"Cousin" is typically said as one word, but it can be broken down into two syllables:

  • cous - like the word "house"
  • in - like the word "fin"

2. Phonetics (Sounds):

  • "cous": The "c" is pronounced like a "k" sound. The "ou" sound is like the "oo" in "food" or "moon."
  • "in": This is a simple "in" sound, like in the word "tin."

3. Putting it Together:

Say it slowly at first: "kuh-sin"

4. Important Notes:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable ("cous"). You want to say "cous" a little louder and with a bit more emphasis.
  • Linking: In natural speech, the "n" sound of "in" will often subtly connect to the "s" sound of "cous." It’s not a harsh connection, but a smooth flow. It will sound something like "kuh-sin" running into each other.

Resources for Hearing It:

  • Google Search: Type "how to pronounce cousin" into Google and click the speaker icon to listen to a recording.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/cousin/ (This website offers pronunciations from native speakers.)
  • YouTube: Search for “how to pronounce cousin” on YouTube for video tutorials.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "cousin"?

Usage and examples with the word cousin in English

Let's break down how to use the word "cousin" in English. It's a pretty straightforward word, but there are nuances to consider!

1. Basic Definition:

A cousin is someone who shares at least one grandparent with you. Specifically:

  • First cousin: The child of your aunt or uncle. (You share a parent with your aunt or uncle, and your aunt/uncle has a child.)
  • Second cousin: The child of your first cousin. (You share a grandparent with your first cousin.)
  • Third cousin (and so on): The children of your second cousins, and so on. The further removed, the less frequently you'll see them.

2. Common Ways to Use "Cousin":

  • Describing Relationships: "Sarah is my first cousin." “My cousin David lives in London." “I’m related to Emily – we’re cousins.”

  • Introducing Someone: "This is my cousin, Mark. He's a musician."

  • Talking about Family Events: "My cousin’s daughter is getting married next year." “We went to my cousin’s house for Thanksgiving.”

  • Informal Conversation: "Let's catch up soon – we haven’t seen each other since last Christmas with our cousins."

3. Phrases with "Cousin":

  • "Cousins together": This refers to cousins who share both grandparents (a first cousin once removed). They’re closer in age than cousins who share only one grandparent.
  • "Cousin once removed": A cousin who is the child of your first cousin. (You share a grandparent with their parent.)
  • "Cousin twice removed": A cousin who is the child of your second cousin. (You share a great-grandparent with their parent.)

4. Tone & Context:

  • Casual: "Hey, cousin! How's it going?" (This suggests a familiar, friendly relationship.)
  • More Formal: "I enjoyed meeting your cousin, John." (More polite and neutral.)

5. Example Sentences Demonstrating Different Uses:

  • "I’m going to visit my cousin Emily next month; she’s just had a baby."
  • "My cousin Ben is really good at playing the guitar."
  • “We’re cousins, so we have a lot in common.”
  • "My aunt and uncle had four children, making me a first cousin to several people."

Resources for Further Learning:

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of how to use "cousin" in a specific context (e.g., writing, conversation)?
  • Explain a particular phrase related to cousins (like "cousins together") in more detail?

Synonyms for the word cousin

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