What is elbow? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of elbow

elbownoun

/ˈɛlbəʊ/
Definition & pronunciation of elbow

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

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ˈelboʊ/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. “el”: Pronounced like "ell" – like in "tell" or "cell".
  2. “bow”: This is the tricky part. It’s pronounced like "bow" as in "bow tie," but with a slightly rounded, almost "oo" sound at the end. It’s not a pure “oo” as in “moon,” but more of a short, relaxed "oh" sound.

Important Points:

  • Stress: The stress is on the first syllable ("el").
  • The "w" sound: The "w" in "bow" is often softened or almost disappears. It's more of a vowel sound blending into the "o."

Resources to help you hear it:

To summarize: Think “ell-bow” with a small, relaxed “oh” sound at the end of the "bow" syllable.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "elbow"?

Usage and examples with the word elbow in English

Let's break down how to use the word "elbow" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a breakdown categorized by its different uses:

1. The Body Part (Most Common)

  • Definition: The bony part of the upper arm, connecting the shoulder to the forearm.
  • Usage: This is the most familiar meaning.
  • Examples:
    • "He had a nasty bruise on his elbow."
    • "She bent her elbow to reach the shelf."
    • "Be careful not to bump your elbow on the table."

2. A Difficult or Tricky Situation (Idiomatic)

  • Definition: A difficult or contentious issue; a sticking point.
  • Usage: This is a common idiom. It's about having to exert effort or overcome resistance.
  • Examples:
    • "The union is trying to get its demands on wages and benefits past the company's elbow." (Meaning: getting the company to agree is difficult.)
    • "Negotiating the contract was a real elbow – both sides were unwilling to compromise."
    • "Dealing with the bureaucracy was quite an elbow."

3. To Force a Way (Idiomatic)

  • Definition: To push or force something through, often with difficulty.
  • Usage: This describes the act of overcoming resistance.
  • Examples:
    • "He tried to elbow his way to the front of the crowd." (Meaning: he pushed through to get ahead.)
    • "The company had to elbow its way into a new market." (Meaning: they had to compete fiercely and overcome obstacles.)

4. A Metal Fitting (Mechanical)

  • Definition: A joint that connects two pipes or tubes, allowing them to bend.
  • Usage: This is a technical term.
  • Examples:
    • "The plumber installed an elbow joint to change the direction of the water pipe."
    • "The diagram shows the proper placement of the elbow fitting."

5. (Less Common) To Extend or Stretch

  • Definition: To extend or stretch out.
  • Usage: This is less frequently used, and often sounds a bit formal.
  • Example: "She elbowed her way through the crowd." (Meaning: she pushed her way through.)

Here’s a quick guide to help you remember which meaning is likely:

  • Body Part: When you’re talking about anatomy.
  • Difficult Situation/Force a Way: When you’re talking about challenges or overcoming obstacles.
  • Metal Fitting: When you're discussing plumbing or mechanics.

Resources for More Information:

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

  • What kind of context are you thinking about when you want to use the word "elbow"? (e.g., a casual conversation, a technical report, a creative writing piece?)

Synonyms for the word elbow

Idioms of the word elbow

get the elbow
(British English, informal)to be told by somebody that they no longer want to have a relationship with you; to be told to go away
    give somebody the elbow
    (British English, informal)to tell somebody that you no longer want to have a relationship with them; to tell somebody to go away
      more power to somebody’s elbow
      (British English, old-fashioned, informal)used to encourage somebody or express support for their actions
        not know your arse from your elbow
        (British English, offensive, slang)to be very stupid; to have absolutely no skill
          rub elbows with somebody
          to meet and spend time with a famous person, socially or as part of your job
          • He’s rubbing elbows with stars all the time.
          • He had been rubbing elbows with celebrities.

          Comment ()