What is independent? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of independent

independentadjective

/ˌɪndɪˈpɛnd(ə)nt/
Definition & pronunciation of independent

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

1. Syllables:

The word is divided into three syllables:

  • in - de
  • pen - dent
  • ent

2. Pronunciation Breakdown:

  • in: Pronounced like the word "in" – /ɪn/ (short "i" sound)
  • de: Pronounced like "deh" – /dɪ/ (short "i" sound, quick)
  • pen: Pronounced like "pen" – /pɛn/ (like the writing tool)
  • dent: Pronounced like "dent" – /dɛnt/ (rhymes with “sent”)
  • ent: Pronounced like "ent" - /ənt/ (a short, unstressed “uh” sound followed by “nt”)

3. Combining It All:

Putting it together, it sounds something like:

in-deh-pen-dent-ent

4. Emphasis:

The primary stress (emphasis) is on the third syllable: "pen" - dent.

Tips and Considerations:

  • Don't say "in-de-pen-dent." This is a common mistake. Separating the syllables incorrectly makes it sound awkward.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "independent" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon. (https://translate.google.com/)
    • Forvo: (https://forvo.com/word/%25independent/) – This website has pronunciations recorded by native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce independent" on YouTube – you’ll find many videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

To summarize,efortlessly: "in-deh-pen-dent-ent"

Would you like me to:

  • Slow down the pronunciation to help you hear the differences?
  • Provide a phonetic transcription (using a system like IPA)?

Usage and examples with the word independent in English

Let's break down how to use the word "independent" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings, so it's important to understand the context.

1. Meaning 1: Not Dependent on Others

  • Core Definition: This is the most common meaning. It describes someone or something that doesn't rely on others for support, help, or direction. It suggests self-sufficiency.

  • Examples:

    • "She’s an independent woman who doesn't need a husband to provide for her." (She's self-sufficient.)
    • "The independent artist created her own designs." (She didn't rely on someone else to do it.)
    • "The company decided to go independent after being acquired." (They chose to operate without being controlled by another company.)
    • "He’s an independent learner – he enjoys figuring things out on his own." (He doesn't need to be told how to learn.)

2. Meaning 2: Relating to a Government or Country

  • Core Definition: This refers to a country that isn’t controlled by another nation or organization. It’s often used in political contexts.

  • Examples:

    • “The newly independent nation struggled to establish its own government.” (The country was just formed and didn't belong to any other country before.)
    • “The UK was once independent but joined the European Union.” (It had independence before.)
    • “The region sought independence from the larger state.” (They wanted to become a separate country.)

3. Meaning 3: (Adjective describing a study or research)

  • Core Definition: This describes a study or research that wasn’t influenced by the researchers or the subjects. It aims for objectivity.

  • Examples:

    • “The independent study showed a clear correlation between exercise and mental health.” (The researchers didn’t influence the results.)
    • “We need to commission an independent audit of the company's finances.” (An outside auditor is needed to provide an unbiased assessment.)

4. Used as an Adjective Describing a Film or Book (Often with "Film" or "Documentary")

  • Core Definition: In this context, it means that the filmmaker or author had creative control and wasn’t dictated to by a studio or production company. It suggests artistic freedom.

  • Example: “It’s an independent film with a very unique style.” (It wasn’t produced by a big studio.)

    • “This is an independent documentary that gives a voice to marginalized communities.” (The filmmaker had control over the content.)

Key Phrases and How to Use Them:

  • Independent thinking: Being able to think for yourself and form your own opinions.
  • Independent contractor: Someone who works for themselves and isn’t an employee.
  • Independent retailer: A small business owner who doesn’t work for a large chain.
  • Independent of: “The decision is independent of the current economic climate.” (Not influenced by)

Tips for Using "Independent":

  • Consider the context: Pay close attention to the sentence and surrounding text to understand which meaning is intended.
  • Synonyms: Think about words that could be used instead, such as: self-sufficient, autonomous, free, unbiased, original.

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

  • What kind of writing are you working on? (e.g., personal essay, academic paper, business report, etc.)
  • Can you give me an example sentence where you're trying to use the word "independent"?

Synonyms for the word independent

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