What is distribution? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of distribution

distributionnoun

/ˌdɪstrɪˈbjuːʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of distribution

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

1. Syllables:

The word is broken into three syllables:

  • dis - as in "dish"
  • tri - as in "tree"
  • bute - as in "but"

2. Phonetics (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

  • /dɪˈstrɪbjuːʃən/

Let's break that down:

  • dɪ: Sounds like "di" as in "did"
  • ˈstrɪ: This is the stressed syllable. “str” is pronounced like “str” in “street,” and “i” is short, like in “sit.” The ˈ symbol indicates the stressed syllable.
  • bute: As in "but"
  • ʃən: Sounds like "shun" – similar to the "shun" in "sun" or "shirt."

3. Putting it Together – A Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Start with "di": Say "di" as in "did".
  2. Add "str": Say “str” like “str” in “street”.
  3. Say “i”: Briefly say “i” as in “sit”.
  4. Say "bute": Say "bute" as in "but”.
  5. Finish with "shun": Finish with "shun" as in “sun”.

4. Tips for Sounding Natural:

  • Stress: The emphasis is on the second syllable ("tri"). Don't say it too evenly.
  • Smooth Transition: Try to link the sounds together smoothly. The “str” should flow into the “i”.
  • Don't over-emphasize the "t": The 't' in "bute" is relatively quiet.

Resources for Hearing and Practicing:

To help me tailor the explanation better, would you like me to:

  • Focus on a specific part of the pronunciation (e.g., the "str" sound)?
  • Provide examples of sentences using the word?

Usage and examples with the word distribution in English

Let's break down how to use the word "distribution" in English. It's a really versatile word with multiple meanings! Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. As a Noun (Most Common Usage):

  • Meaning 1: The act of spreading something out or delivering it to different places or people. This is the most frequent way you'll encounter it.

    • Example: "The distribution of the new software was delayed due to server issues." (Here, it means the process of getting the software to users).
    • Example: "The company’s distribution network covers 50 countries." (Refers to how they get their products to customers globally).
    • Example: "We’re organizing a food distribution to help families in need." (Means delivering food).

  • Meaning 2: A way of organizing and delivering something.

    • Example: "The distribution of the books in the library is alphabetical." (They're organized in that way).
    • Example: "The distribution of the information was confusing." (It was presented in a clumsy or unclear way).

2. As a Verb:

  • Meaning 1: To spread something out or distribute it.

    • Example: "The government will distribute funds to struggling businesses." (To give/spread the money).
    • Example: "The artist distributed flyers around the city to promote his exhibition." (To hand out flyers).
    • Example: "We’ll distribute the cookies equally among the children." (To share).

  • Meaning 2 (Less Common): To allocate or assign.

    • Example: “The professor will distribute the exam papers at the end of the lecture.” (To give out – often in a formal context).

3. Related Concepts & Phrases:

  • Distribution Channel: The path a product takes from manufacturer to consumer (e.g., retail store, online seller, distributor). “The company uses a direct distribution channel to reach customers.”

  • Distribution Center: A warehouse used for storing and distributing goods. “The packages were shipped from the regional distribution center.”

  • Market Distribution: How a product is sold and delivered to customers in a specific market. “The restaurant's market distribution is focused on the downtown area.”

  • Distribution Network: A system of distributors used to spread a product of service. “The company has a robust distribution network.”

Tips for Using "Distribution" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand which meaning is intended.
  • Synonyms: Consider using synonyms like “delivery,” “spread,” “allocation,” “distribution,” or “supply” depending on the specific situation.
  • Formal vs. Informal: "Distribution" is generally a more formal word than “give out” or “share.”

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me tailor my explanation further, could you tell me:

  • What specifically are you trying to use the word "distribution" in? (e.g., a specific sentence, a topic you’re studying, etc.)

Synonyms for the word distribution

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