What is distribute? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of distribute

distributeverb

/dɪˈstrɪbjuːt//ˈdɪstrɪbjuːt/
Definition & pronunciation of distribute

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "distribute" in English. It can be tricky! Here's a breakdown, with emphasis on the key sounds:

1. Syllables:

"Distribute" is generally considered to have three syllables:

  • dis - like "dish" (short 'i' sound)
  • tribute - like "tub-ree-dree" (this is the trickiest part!)
  • -rate - like "rate" (rhymes with "gate")

2. Detailed Pronunciation:

  • dis: /dɪs/ - The "d" is a regular "d" sound. The "i" is a short "i" sound, like in "bit."
  • tribute: /tjubriːt/ - This is where most people stumble. Let's break it down:
    • t: A standard "t" sound.
    • juh: Like the "yoo" in "you.” It's a diphthong (a gliding vowel sound). It’s a bit like saying “ju” quickly and smoothly.
    • bree: Pronounced like "bree" in "breeze." Think of a slightly drawn-out “ee” sound.
    • t: Another "t" sound.
  • -rate: /reɪt/ - The "r" is a retroflex r (more on this below). The "a" is a long "a" sound, like in "say." The "t" is a standard "t."

3. The Retroflex “r” (Important!)

This is the biggest hurdle for many learners. The "r" in "tribute" isn't a typical English “r.” It’s a retroflex r. Here's how to approximate it:

  • Curl your tongue back in your mouth: As if you're trying to touch the roof of your mouth with the tip of your tongue. Don’t actually touch it!
  • Produce a slight friction sound: As you curl your tongue back, you'll create a little buzzing or friction sound in your throat. Think of the sound you might make trying to clear your throat gently. It’s a subtle sound, not a strong "r" roll like in Spanish.

4. Putting it all together:

/dɪsˈtjubriːt/ (with the emphasis on the second syllable - "tribute")

Resources for Hearing the Pronunciation:

  • YouGlish: https://youglish.com/w/distribute - This website shows you how native speakers pronounce the word in real-world contexts (videos).
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/distribute/ - This website offers audio pronunciations from different speakers.
  • Google Translate: Type "distribute" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.

Tips for Practice:

  • Break it down: Practice each syllable individually before combining them.
  • Slow it down: Start slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
  • Listen and repeat: Listen to native speakers as much as possible and try to mimic their pronunciation.
  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.

Would you like me to:

  • Focus on a specific aspect of the pronunciation (e.g., just the "tribute" part)?
  • Give you some example sentences to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word distribute in English

Let's break down how to use the word "distribute" in English. It's a versatile word with a clear meaning, but nuance is important.

1. Core Meaning: To Spread Out or Give Out

At its most basic, "distribute" means to spread something out evenly or to give something to people or places. Think of it as the opposite of concentrating.

2. Common Ways to Use "Distribute"

Here’s a breakdown of how you can use it in different contexts, with examples:

  • Giving Out Items: This is the most frequent usage.

    • "The company will distribute flyers to every household in the neighborhood." (Giving out leaflets)
    • "The teacher distributed the exams at the beginning of class." (Giving out papers)
    • "We’re going to distribute food to the homeless shelter." (Giving out food)
    • “The airline distributed complimentary snacks on the flight.”

  • Sharing Resources: More broadly, it can mean sharing something that's not necessarily a physical object.

    • "The government is working to distribute funding to schools in rural areas." (Sharing money)
    • "The software company will distribute the new version of its program next month." (Releasing/making available)
    • "The museum will distribute copies of the exhibition catalogue." (Making available materials)

  • Allocating Tasks or Responsibilities:

    • “The project manager will distribute the tasks among the team members.” (Assigning tasks)
    • "The coach distributed playing time to all of the players." (Giving opportunities)

  • Spreading (Often Figuratively):

    • "The news spread quickly and was distributed across social media." (Spreading information)
    • “The artist’s work was distributed throughout Europe.” (Showing or displaying)

3. Verb Forms & Related Words

  • Distribute: The base form (e.g., "They will distribute the goods.")
  • Distributes: The present tense, third-person singular (e.g., "He distributes the mail.")
  • Distribution: The noun form – the act of distributing (e.g., "The distribution of resources was uneven.")
  • Distributively: (Adverb - less common) – In a way that involves distribution (e.g., "The company’s profits were distributed based on seniority.")

4. Key Considerations & Synonyms

  • Evenly vs. Unevenly: "Distribute" suggests spreading something out evenly or fairly. If it's not even, you might use a different word like "allocate," "assign," or "pass out."
  • Synonyms: Here are some words that can often be used in place of "distribute," depending on the context:
    • Give out
    • Allocate
    • Assign
    • Share
    • Spread
    • Deliver
    • Provide

5. Examples in Sentences

  • "The volunteers will distribute blankets and warm clothing to those in need."
  • "The software company plans to distribute the update across all devices."
  • "The teacher needs to distribute the papers quietly so everyone can focus."
  • "The charity distributed aid to the refugees."

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

  • What kind of context are you thinking about? (e.g., business, education, charity, general conversation?)
  • Is there a specific situation you'd like to use "distribute" in?

Synonyms for the word distribute

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