What is ignore? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of ignore

ignoreverb

/ɪɡˈnɔː/
Definition & pronunciation of ignore

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "ignore" in English. Here's a breakdown and a few tips:

The Standard Pronunciation:

  • ih-NYOR (This is the most common and widely accepted pronunciation)

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  • ih - Like the "i" in "bit" or "hit"
  • NYOR - This is the trickier part.
    • NY - This is a diphthong (a single vowel sound that blends into another). Think of it as a short, quick "ny" sound like in "onion" or "lynx." It’s a subtle sound.
    • OR – Like the "or" in "born” or “more.”

Tips for getting it right:

  1. The "NY" sound: Really focus on the "ny" sound. Don't just say "i" and then "or." It's a blended sound. Practice saying "onion" and "lynx" repeatedly.

  2. Emphasis: The stress is on the second syllable: ih-NYOR.

  3. Don't over-emphasize the "r": The "r" at the end isn’t a very strong, rolling "r" in American English. It’s softer and more lightly pronounced.

Here are some resources to hear the pronunciation:

Would you like me to:

  • Give you some example sentences using "ignore"?
  • Practice the pronunciation with you?

Usage and examples with the word ignore in English

Let's break down how to use the word "ignore" in English. It has a range of meanings, so understanding the context is key. Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. To Not Pay Attention To (Most Common)

  • Meaning: To deliberately not notice or acknowledge something. It implies you’re choosing not to consider it.
  • Structure: Ignore + noun/pronoun
  • Examples:
    • "Stop ignoring me! I'm trying to talk to you." (You're refusing to listen)
    • "He ignored the warning signs and drove too fast." (He didn't pay attention to the danger)
    • "She ignored the crowd and went straight to the back entrance." (She disregarded the people around her)
    • "Don't ignore your body when it tells you you're tired." (Don't disregard your physical signals)

2. To Pretend Not To See or Hear (Often implying rudeness)

  • Meaning: To deliberately pretend you don't notice something, often with the intention of being impolite or avoiding a situation.
  • Structure: Ignore + noun/pronoun
  • Examples:
    • "He ignored her pleas for help." (He refused to recognize her distress)
    • "The police ignored the vandalism." (They didn’t address the problem)
    • "They ignored the homeless man begging on the street." (They deliberately avoided acknowledging him)

3. To Disregard (Formal – often used in rules/instructions)

  • Meaning: To have no effect on or not be considered. Often used in formal writing or instructions.
  • Structure: Ignore + noun/pronoun
  • Examples:
    • "The software ignores any comments made in the text field." (The comments have no impact)
    • "The new regulations ignore existing agreements." (The regulations don’t take the old agreements into account.)

4. (Less Common - Figurative) To Not Consider a Difficult Issue

  • Meaning: To avoid dealing with a problem or difficult topic.
  • Examples:
    • "The company ignored the growing complaints about poor working conditions." (They didn't address the issue)
    • “Politicians often ignore the needs of ordinary citizens.” (They don’t consider their concerns.)

Key Considerations & Related Words:

  • Intention: "Ignore" often implies a deliberate choice. You choose to not notice or pay attention.
  • Contrast with "notice" or "pay attention": "Ignore" is the opposite of these verbs.
  • Synonyms: Some words that can be used instead of "ignore" include: dismiss, disregard, overlook, snub, ignore, evade, bypass.
  • Negative Connotation: “Ignore” often carries a negative connotation, suggesting rudeness, indifference, or a lack of responsibility. However, it can be used neutrally to describe how a system works.

Let’s test your understanding:

Complete these sentences using "ignore":

  1. I refuse to _________ her insults.
  2. The computer program will _________ any errors you type.
  3. Don't _________ the instructions; they're important.
  4. He chose to _________ the loud music and study.

Answers:

  1. ignore
  2. ignore
  3. ignore
  4. ignore

Would you like me to:

  • Give you more examples?
  • Explain "ignore" in a specific context (e.g., in business, in a conversation)?
  • Help you practice using "ignore" in your own sentences?

Synonyms for the word ignore

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