What is engaged? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of engaged

engagedadjective

/ɪnˈɡeɪdʒd//ɛnˈɡeɪdʒd/
Definition & pronunciation of engaged

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "engaged." It’s a tricky one for non-native English speakers! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • ih-GENG-ayd

Let's break it down further:

  • ih: Sounds like the "i" in "bit" or "ship." (Short "i" sound)
  • GENG: This is the trickiest part. It's a single syllable, and it sounds like "gent" but with a slightly harder “g” sound. It's not like the “gen” in “general.” Think of the “g” as a short, sharp sound.
  • ayd: Sounds like the “ay” in “say” or “play.” (Short "ay" sound)

Here's a helpful breakdown with phonetic symbols (using the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA):

/ˌɪnˈdʒɛŋd/

Resources to help you hear it:

  • Google Translate: Type "engaged" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/engaged/ - This website has recordings of native speakers pronouncing the word.
  • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce engaged" on YouTube – you’ll find many videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

Common Mispronunciations:

  • “engay”: This is a very common mistake. It’s important to make the “g” sound distinct.
  • “eng-geed”: Adding an extra “e” is incorrect.

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

  • Are you a native speaker of a particular language? (Knowing your native language can help me identify any specific sounds that might be difficult for you).

Usage and examples with the word engaged in English

Let's break down how to use the word "engaged" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with multiple meanings! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. Romantic Engagement (Most Common)

  • Meaning: Planning to marry someone. This is the most widely recognized meaning.
  • Usage: "They're engaged to be married." "She accepted his engagement ring." "When did they get engaged?"
  • Related Phrases:
    • Engagement ring: The ring symbolizing the commitment.
    • Engagement party: A celebration for the couple.
    • Betrothed: (A more formal synonym for engaged)

2. Committed/Dedicated (General Use)

  • Meaning: Fully committed to a task, activity, or cause. It conveys a strong sense of involvement and serious effort.
  • Usage: “He’s engaged in a long-term research project.” “She’s engaged to helping the homeless.” “The company is engaged in negotiations.” “The team is fully engaged in the game.”
  • Synonyms: Committed, involved, dedicated, absorbed, focused

3. Involved/Participating (In a conversation or activity)

  • Meaning: Paying attention and actively participating.
  • Usage: “The students were engaged in a lively discussion.” “The audience seemed engaged by the speaker’s presentation.” “He was engaged in trying to solve the puzzle.”
  • Synonyms: Attentive, interested, involved, participating.

4. Mechanically Engaged (Technical)

  • Meaning: In a state where parts are connected and working together. (Often used in mechanical devices)
  • Usage: "The gears were engaged.” “The clutch is engaged.” “The brakes were engaged.”

5. (Less Common) To be engaged to do something:

  • Meaning: To be determined to do something, often with a sense of purpose or determination.
  • Usage: "I'm engaged to finish this project by Friday.” “She was engaged to overcome her fear.” (This usage is less frequent than the others)

Tips for Using “Engaged” Correctly:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "engaged" depends entirely on the context.
  • Adjective vs. Verb: “Engaged” is most often used as an adjective (describing someone or something). However, it can also be used as a verb (as in, “I’m engaged to do something”).
  • Don't Overuse: While a useful word, "engaged" can sound a bit formal if used excessively.

Resources for More Information:

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

  • What kind of context are you using “engaged” in? (e.g., romantic relationships, a project at work, a conversation?)

Synonyms for the word engaged

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