What is demand? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of demand

demandnoun

/dɪˈmɑːnd/
Definition & pronunciation of demand

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

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

/dɪˈmænd/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • di: Pronounced like "dee" - as in the letter D. Short and crisp.
  • mand: This is the trickiest part. It's pronounced with a 'nd' sound (like in "hand" or "send"), but the 'd' is silent. It almost feels a little bit like a "mahnd" sound. Think of it as a short, soft "m" followed by the 'n' sound.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the sounds:

  • "dɪ": This is a diphthong – a gliding vowel sound. Start with a short "i" sound (like in "bit") and then move smoothly towards an "a" sound.
  • "mand": Focus on the silent 'd' and the muffled ‘m’ sound. Try to avoid a hard “d” sound at the beginning.

Tips for getting it right:

  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is by listening. You can find pronunciations on:

    • Google Translate: Type "demand" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/demand/ – This website has pronunciations recorded by native speakers from different regions.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce demand" on YouTube – you'll find many helpful videos.

  • Record yourself: Say the word out loud and compare your pronunciation to a native speaker's.

  • Practice slowly: Don’t try to rush. Focus on getting each syllable right.

  • Think of the visual: Picture yourself saying “dee” and then a soft “mahnd.”

Would you like me to:

  • Give you some example sentences using "demand"?
  • Provide additional resources for pronunciation?

Usage and examples with the word demand in English

Let's break down how to use the word "demand" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings and usages. Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Verb (to require something forcefully or urgently):

  • Meaning: To insist strongly on something; to require something urgently or forcefully.
  • Examples:
    • "The customers demanded an explanation for the delay." (They insisted strongly.)
    • "The protesters demanded government action." (They urgently called for action.)
    • "He demanded to speak to the manager." (He insisted forcefully.)
    • "The city demands a new bridge." (The needs of the city necessitate it.)
  • Synonyms: request, insist, require, necessitate, invoke

2. As a Noun (a request or assertion of a need or right):

  • Meaning: A statement of a need, right, or request, presented forcefully. Often implies a forceful or insistent nature.
  • Examples:
    • "The union issued a demand for higher wages." (Their request was forceful.)
    • “The company received a demand for a full accounting of the funds.” (They made a formal request for information.)
    • "Her demand was simple: to be treated with respect." (Her request was firm.)
  • Synonyms: request, claim, demand, insistence, proposition

3. Figurative/Business Context (Supply and Demand):

  • Meaning: The relationship between the quantity of a commodity that buyers are willing to purchase and the price they are willing to pay. It’s a fundamental economic principle.
  • Examples:
    • "High demand for electric cars is driving up prices."
    • "The law of demand states that as price increases, quantity demanded decreases."
    • “There’s low demand for that product currently.”

4. Demand (a person who demands something – more informal)

  • Meaning: Someone who is demanding, often in a demanding or pushy way. This is less formal and can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation.
  • Examples:
    • “Don’t be such a demand!” (Don't be so demanding!)
    • “He’s a difficult demand – always wanting things his way.”

Key Considerations & Nuances:

  • Formality: "Demand" is generally a fairly formal word. In casual conversation, you might use more relaxed phrases like "ask for," "request," or "want."
  • Tone: The word "demand" can carry a slightly negative or assertive tone. Consider your audience and the situation when using it.
  • Context is Crucial: The specific meaning of "demand" is always determined by the context in which it’s used.

Here's a quick table summarizing the different uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Verb To insist strongly The team demanded a change in strategy.
Noun A forceful request or assertion They presented a strong demand for funding.
(Figurative) Supply and demand relationship Demand for housing is rising sharply.
(Informal) A demanding person He’s a difficult demand.

Resources for Further Learning:

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

  • What kind of context are you thinking about where you want to use "demand"? (e.g., a business email, a casual conversation, a written essay?)

Synonyms for the word demand

Idioms of the word demand

by popular demand
because a lot of people have asked for something
  • By popular demand, the play will run for another week.
in demand
wanted by a lot of people
  • Good secretaries are always in demand.
on demand
done or happening whenever somebody asks
  • Feed the baby on demand.
  • The service allows you to watch video on demand.
  • All of the conference sessions will be available on demand for 90 days.

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