What is deserted? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of deserted

desertedadjective

/dɪˈzəːtɪd/
Definition & pronunciation of deserted

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "deserted." Here's a breakdown and some tips:

The Basic Pronunciation:

  • dez-ERT-ed

Let's look at each syllable:

  1. dez: Pronounced like "deez" (as in "bees") - short and quick.
  2. ERT: This is the key part. The "er" sound is like the "er" in "her" or "fear." It's a slightly emphasized syllable.
  3. ed: Pronounced like the "ed" in "bed" or "red."

Tips for getting it right:

  • Stress: The emphasis is on the second syllable ("ERT").
  • Don't say "de-zert." The "z" sound doesn't make an appearance.
  • The "er" sound: Focus on a clear, distinct "er" sound for that second syllable.

Here are a few ways to hear it:

  • Google it: Search "how to pronounce deserted" on Google and you'll find audio examples.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/deserted/ – Forvo is a website where native speakers pronounce words.

Would you like me to:

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Usage and examples with the word deserted in English

Let's break down how to use the word "deserted" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different meanings and nuances.

1. As an Adjective (Desolate/Abandoned):

This is the most common usage. "Deserted" describes something that is empty, abandoned, and often bleak or lonely.

  • Examples:
    • "The deserted beach stretched out before us, empty except for the crashing waves." (Empty, lacking people)
    • "The deserted farmhouse stood on a hill, a silent testament to a forgotten family." (Abandoned, no longer occupied)
    • "After the storm, the road was deserted by all traffic." (Empty, no vehicles)
    • "A deserted island – a paradise lost." (Suggests a beautiful, but now unused, place)

2. As a Verb (To Abandon):

"Deserted" can also be a verb, meaning to abandon someone or something, often in a sudden or dramatic way.

  • Examples:
    • "The soldiers deserted their post during the battle." (Left their duty)
    • "She deserted her husband and children and ran away with another man." (Abandoned a relationship)
    • "He deserted his responsibilities to pursue his dreams." (Stopped fulfilling obligations)
    • "The crew deserted the ship in the face of the massive storm." (Left the ship)

3. Figurative Usage (Emotional Abandonment):

Sometimes, "deserted" is used metaphorically to describe feeling emotionally abandoned or lonely.

  • Examples:
    • "I felt deserted by my friends when I was going through a difficult time." (Emotionally isolated)
    • “He felt deserted by his own conscience.” (Morally abandoned)

Key Considerations & Nuances:

  • Tone: “Deserted” often carries a negative connotation, suggesting loss, sadness, or isolation.
  • Stronger Alternatives: Depending on the context, you might consider words like:
    • Abandoned: (More neutral, simply means left behind)
    • Vacant: (Specifically describes emptiness, like a room)
    • Isolated: (Focuses on remoteness)
    • Lonely: (Highlights the feeling of being alone)

Here's a quick table summarizing the usages:

Usage Part of Speech Meaning Example
Adjective Adjective Empty, abandoned The deserted city was eerie.
Verb Verb To abandon He deserted his post.
Figurative Adjective/Verb Emotionally abandoned She felt deserted by her family.

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Synonyms for the word deserted

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