What is declare? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of declare

declareverb

/dɪˈklɛː/
Definition & pronunciation of declare

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "declare" in English. Here's a breakdown with phonetic symbols and a more conversational explanation:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet)

  • ˈdɪˌklær (This is the most accurate representation)

Let's break that down:

  • ˈdɪ: This is the first syllable.
    • ˈd - The 'd' is pronounced clearly, as in "dog."
    • ɪ - This is a short, quick "ih" sound, like in "bit."
  • ˌklær: This is the second syllable.
    • ˌ - This is a secondary stress mark. It indicates that this syllable is emphasized more than the first.
    • kl - Pronounced as a single sound, like "cl" in "clock."
    • ær - This is a broad "ah" sound, similar to the 'a' in "father." It's a slightly open 'a' sound.

2. Pronunciation Guide (More Conversational)

Here's how you can say it step-by-step:

  1. "Di" – Say "dee" quickly. (Like “bit”)
  2. "Clare" – Say “clare” with a clear “cl” sound followed by a longer, open “ah” sound. Think of it like saying "clarify" but with the "fy" sound dropped.

Putting it together: Dee-clare. Notice the emphasis on the first syllable.

Tips for Getting it Right:

  • Don't over-emphasize the second syllable: The secondary stress mark (ˌ) is key. It means you shouldn’t make the second syllable significantly louder or longer.
  • The "ar" sound: This is the trickiest part for some people. Make sure it's a broad, open "ah" sound – not a tight "a" sound like in "cat."
  • Listen to Examples: The best way to learn is to hear native speakers pronounce the word. Here are a few options:
    • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce declare" on Google and click the audio icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/declare/ - This website offers pronunciations by native speakers from various regions.
    • YouTube: Search for "pronounce declare" on YouTube to find videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a few example sentences using the word "declare"?

Usage and examples with the word declare in English

The word "declare" is a wonderfully versatile word with several different meanings in English. Here's a breakdown of its common uses, broken down with examples:

1. To Announce Formally (Most Common)

  • Meaning: To state something publicly and officially, often with a sense of certainty or determination.
  • Example: “The president declared war on the enemy nation.” (He officially announced the start of a war.)
  • Example: “The company declared its commitment to sustainability.” (They announced their dedication to environmentally friendly practices.)
  • Synonyms: announce, proclaim, state, reveal, announce

2. To State Officially (Legal/Formal Contexts)

  • Meaning: In a legal setting, to formally announce or state facts, especially in a court of law.
  • Example: “The defendant declared he had not been at the scene of the crime.” (He stated his alibi during questioning.)
  • Example: “The judge declared the contract invalid.” (The judge formally ruled the contract null and void.)

3. To Announce a Variable (Programming)

  • Meaning: In computer programming, to tell the computer that a variable exists and what type of data it will hold.
  • Example: "In Java, you declare a variable like this: int age;" (You tell the computer that age is an integer variable.)
  • Synonyms: initialize, define (in programming)

4. To State One's Intentions (Less Common, Formal)

  • Meaning: To express one's intentions or desires clearly. (Often used in a more formal or slightly archaic way).
  • Example: “She declared her love for him.” (She openly and formally expressed her feelings.)
  • Example: “The team declared its intention to win the championship.” (They stated their goal.)

5. To Recognize or Admit (Often with a sense of regret or acceptance)

  • Meaning: To acknowledge the truth of something, often reluctantly.
  • Example: “He declared himself bankrupt.” (He admitted he couldn't pay his debts.)
  • Example: “After years of denial, she finally declared her illness to her family.” (She admitted she was sick.)

Key Considerations and Tips:

  • Context is crucial: The meaning of "declare" depends heavily on the context in which it's used. Pay attention to the surrounding words and the situation.
  • Formality: “Declare” often sounds more formal than words like “say” or “tell.”
  • Strong Assertion: “Declare” often implies a strong, confident statement.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me tailor my explanation even more, could you tell me:

  • What is the context you’re interested in? (e.g., legal, business, programming, everyday conversation?)

Synonyms for the word declare

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