What is deliberate? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of deliberate

deliberateadjective

/dɪˈlɪb(ə)rət/
Definition & pronunciation of deliberate

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "deliberate" in English. It can be a tricky one! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word is broken down into three syllables:

  • del - pronounced like "dell" (as in a valley)
  • ber - pronounced like "bear" (as in the animal)
  • ate - pronounced like "eight"

2. Sounds:

  • del: Think of the "dell" sound. It's a short, clear "d" sound followed by a quick "ell" sound.
  • ber: Again, the "bear" sound – clear and distinct.
  • ate: This is simple – pronounced like the word "eight."

3. Putting it Together:

Say it slowly: Deh-ber-ate

4. Emphasis:

The emphasis is generally on the first syllable: Deh-ber-ate

Tips for getting it right:

  • Don't link the syllables: Avoid saying "del-ber-ate" like a single, connected word. Each syllable should be relatively distinct.
  • Practice slowly: It’s better to start slow and get the rhythm right before speeding up.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. Here are some resources:
    • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce deliberate" on Google and click the audio icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/deliberate/ - This website provides pronunciations by native speakers.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation for you?
  • Give you a few example sentences using the word "deliberate"?

Usage and examples with the word deliberate in English

Let's break down how to use the word "deliberate" effectively in English. It's a surprisingly nuanced word with multiple meanings!

1. Meaning 1: Thoughtful and Careful (Most Common)

  • Definition: This is the most frequent usage. It describes an action or decision that has been carefully considered and planned out, not impulsive or random.
  • Synonyms: thoughtful, considered, intentional, planned, measured
  • Examples:
    • "He made a deliberate effort to be polite." (He actively and carefully tried to be polite.)
    • "She took a deliberate step to avoid tripping." (She planned her step carefully.)
    • "The company conducted a deliberate review of its security policy." (They carefully examined and considered the policy.)
    • “The artist made a deliberate choice to use minimalist colors.” (The artist consciously selected minimalist colors.)

2. Meaning 2: Intentional and Purposeful (Often with a negative connotation)

  • Definition: This meaning suggests an action done on purpose, often with a specific (sometimes malicious) goal or effect. It carries a slightly more serious tone than simply "thoughtful."
  • Synonyms: calculated, premeditated, deliberate, purposeful, malicious
  • Examples:
    • "The attack was a deliberate act of sabotage." (It was planned with the intent to cause damage.)
    • "He gave a deliberate lie to cover his tracks." (He intentionally told a falsehood.)
    • “The politician’s deliberate speech aimed to mislead the public.” (The speech was carefully crafted to deceive.)

3. Meaning 3: Slow and Purposeful (Related to Movement/Action)

  • Definition: Describes movement or actions performed slowly and deliberately, often to show control or precision.
  • Synonyms: careful, measured, precise, paced
  • Examples:
    • "The surgeon made a deliberate incision." (The incision was made slowly and carefully.)
    • "He took a deliberate sip of his coffee." (He drank it slowly and consciously.)

Key Things to Remember:

  • Context is Crucial: The exact meaning of "deliberate" depends entirely on the sentence it’s in. Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand what the author means.
  • Adjective vs. Verb: “Deliberate” is primarily an adjective (describing a noun). However, it can be used as a verb:
    • “He deliberately lied.” (He intentionally told a falsehood.)

How to Practice:

  1. Fill-in-the-blanks: Try completing sentences using "deliberate" in the correct meaning.
  2. Rewrite sentences: Take sentences where “deliberate” is used and rewrite them using synonyms to see how the meaning shifts.
  3. Think about the intention: When you encounter the word, ask yourself: What is the purpose behind the action or decision? This will often help you determine the intended meaning of “deliberate.”

Resources for Further Learning:

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

  • Are you trying to use "deliberate" in a specific context (e.g., writing an essay, having a conversation)?

Synonyms for the word deliberate

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