What is discount? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of discount

discountnoun

/ˈdɪskaʊnt/
Definition & pronunciation of discount

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "discount." Here's a breakdown with phonetics and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

  • /ˈdɪs.kənt/ (This is the most accurate representation)

2. Breakdown by Syllable:

  • dis: Pronounced like "dis" in "dish" - /dɪs/ (short "i" sound)
  • count: Pronounced like "count" - /kənt/ (The "c" is pronounced like a "uh" sound before the "nt")

3. Putting it together:

Say it slowly: "Dis-count"

4. Tips for Correct Pronunciation:

  • The "c" sound: This is the trickiest part. It's not like the "c" in "cat." It's a schwa sound - a very short, unstressed “uh” sound, similar to the “a” in “about.”
  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable: DIS-count.
  • Flow: Don't pronounce each syllable distinctly. It's meant to flow together smoothly.

Resources to hear it:

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Usage and examples with the word discount in English

Let's break down how to use the word "discount" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a detailed explanation:

1. As a Reduction in Price (Most Common)

  • Meaning: This is the most frequent use of "discount." It refers to a reduction in the usual price of something.
  • Examples:
    • "There's a discount on all shoes this week."
    • "The store is offering a 20% discount."
    • "I got a discount because I'm a student."
    • "We're giving a special discount to new customers."
  • Grammar: It’s often followed by the amount of the reduction (e.g., “a 10% discount,” “a large discount”).

2. As a General Reduction or Decrease (Broader Sense)

  • Meaning: “Discount” can also mean a reduction in something other than price. It represents a lessening or reducing of something’s importance, value, or influence.
  • Examples:
    • "He discounted her opinion because he didn't agree with it." (Reduced its value)
    • "The economist discounted the possibility of a recession." (Lowered the probability)
    • "We need to discount the rumors – they’re probably not true." (Minimize their importance)
    • "The company discounted the risk of losing its main supplier." (Minimized the risk)

3. As a Verb (To Reduce, Lower)

  • Meaning: “Discount” can be used as a verb to describe the act of reducing something’s value or importance.
  • Examples:
    • "Investors discounted the company's earnings report." (They treated the report as less important)
    • “The market quickly discounted the news of the merger.” (The market reacted by lowering the price/value accordingly)

4. "Discount Code" & "Discount Rate" (Specific Phrases)

  • Discount Code: A code you enter online to receive a discount. "Use this discount code at checkout!"
  • Discount Rate: Often used in finance and economics, it refers to the percentage at which something is discounted (e.g., “the interest discount rate”).

Here's a table summarizing the different uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Noun Reduction in price "There's a 50% discount on furniture."
Noun Reduction in importance/value "I discounted her suggestion."
Verb To reduce, lower, or minimize "They discounted the threats."
Phrase Code for a discount "Enter the discount code 'SUMMER20'."
Phrase Percentage applied to a value "The discount rate is 8%."

Tips for Using "Discount" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand which meaning is intended.
  • Be specific: If possible, state the amount of the discount ("a 20% discount") for clarity.

Can you give me an example sentence you'd like me to analyze, or a specific situation where you're unsure how to use "discount"? I can help you refine your usage even further!

Synonyms for the word discount

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