What is exit? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of exit

exitnoun

/ˈɛksɪt//ˈɛɡzɪt/
Definition & pronunciation of exit

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "exit" in English. Here's a breakdown of the sounds and how to put them together:

1. The Sounds:

  • i - as in "bit" (a short, quick "i" sound)
  • x - pronounced like "gz" (as in "glasses")
  • it - pronounced like "it" (as in "kit")

2. Putting it Together:

The word "exit" is generally pronounced: ig-zist

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  • ig - like "ig" in "pig"
  • zist - rhymes with "list"

3. Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Focus on the "gz" sound: This is the trickiest part for some people. Imagine saying "glasses" quickly then shortening it.
  • Don't stress the "x": It's a subtle sound. It’s not pronounced as a hard "x" like in "box".
  • Don't say "ex-it": This is a very common mistake! It’s the “i” sound that comes first.

Resources for Hearing it:

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

  • Are you a native English speaker, or are you learning? (Knowing this helps me adjust my explanation.)

Usage and examples with the word exit in English

Let's break down how to use the word "exit" in English. It has several different meanings and uses!

1. As a Verb (to leave)

This is the most common usage. "Exit" means to leave a place or situation.

  • Example: "I need to exit the building before the fire alarm goes off."
  • Example: "She exited the meeting early feeling frustrated."
  • Example: "He exited the taxi and walked down the street."
  • Phrases:
    • Exit the room: To leave a room.
    • Exit a conversation: To stop talking in a conversation.
    • Exit a situation: To leave a difficult or unpleasant situation.

2. As a Noun (a way out)

"Exit" can also refer to a way out – a door, passage, or route that allows you to leave.

  • Example: "The nearest exit is down the hallway on the right."
  • Example: "The emergency exit was blocked by debris."
  • Example: "They found a hidden exit through a secret passage."

3. In Theatres & Movies (Stage Exit)

This is a specific and somewhat formal usage tied to the performing arts. “Stage exit” means the way an actor leaves the stage.

  • Example: "The actor followed the stage exit." (meaning the designated door or area).
  • Example: "The stage directions called for a quick stage exit."

4. More General Usage (to cease or terminate)

Sometimes, "exit" can be used more broadly to mean to stop something or to end something, though this is less common.

  • Example: "Press the exit button to terminate the call." (Often used in phone systems).

Here's a table summarizing the different meanings:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Verb To leave “I’ll exit now.”
Noun A way out, a door, passage “The exit is through the back door.”
Verb (Formal) To leave (theatre/film) "The actor took a swift stage exit."

Tips for Using “Exit” Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand which meaning is intended.
  • Consider your audience: "Stage exit" is usually only appropriate when talking to people familiar with theatre.

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of how to use "exit"?
  • Explain a specific context where you're wondering how to use "exit"? (e.g., "I'm writing a story and need to describe someone exiting a building.")

Synonyms for the word exit

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