What is absent? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of absent

absentadjective

/ˈabs(ə)nt/
Definition & pronunciation of absent

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "absent" in English. It can be a tricky one! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "ab" – This part is relatively straightforward. It sounds like "ab" as in "above."
  • "sent" – This is where it gets a little trickier. It has a "tense" sound – a long "e" sound that’s slightly further back in your mouth than a normal "e". Think of the “e” in “bed” but a little more stretched out and a bit deeper.

2. Putting it Together:

The whole word is pronounced something like: “AB-zuhnt”

Let’s break that down further:

  • "AB" – As mentioned above, like "ab" in "above."
  • "zuhnt" – This is the key. The "z" makes a "z" sound (as in "zebra"). The “uhnt” part is the long “e” sound that's a bit deeper.

Tips & Considerations:

To summarize, aim for: “AB-zuhnt” with that slightly tense "e" sound.

Would you like me to:

  • Record an example pronunciation (I can't actually record audibly here, but tell you how to make the sounds)?
  • Give you some words that have similar sounds to help you practice?

Usage and examples with the word absent in English

Let's break down how to use the word "absent" in English. It has a few different meanings and uses, so it's important to understand the context.

1. Not Present (Most Common Meaning)

  • Definition: This is the most frequent use. "Absent" means not being present at a place or event.
  • Examples:
    • "He was absent from the meeting yesterday." (He didn’t attend the meeting.)
    • "The audience was mostly absent during the first half of the film." (Many people weren't watching.)
    • "She was absent from school due to illness." (She didn’t go to school.)
    • "The magician's assistant was absent from the performance." (She wasn't part of the show.)

2. Missing in Appearance or Feeling (Figurative)

  • Definition: This describes a person who seems emotionally detached, distant, or lacking vitality. It’s often used to describe someone who is quiet, withdrawn, or not fully engaged.
  • Examples:
    • "He looked rather absent and preoccupied." (He seemed lost in thought and not paying attention.)
    • "Her usual enthusiasm was absent today." (She didn’t seem happy or excited.)
    • "There was an absent quality to his gaze." (His eyes lacked focus or expression.)

3. Missing in a Legal or Formal Sense (Often with “from”)

  • Definition: This refers to being legally or officially removed from a position or duty.
  • Examples:
    • "The officer was absent from duty due to suspension." (He was temporarily removed from his job.)
    • "She was absent from her position as manager." (She no longer held the role.)
    • “The defendant was absent from the trial.” (He didn't show up).

4. Related to a Missing Sound or Signal (Technical)

  • Definition: In technical contexts (like electronics or radio), "absent" means not detected or present.
  • Example: "The signal was absent from the receiver." (The signal wasn’t received.)

Key Differences & Synonyms

Feature Absent Other Synonyms
Primary Use Not present Missing, absent, lacking
Meaning Physically or figuratively not there Unavailable, missing, detached
Synonyms Missing, unavailable, out of sight, nonexistent Unavailable, lacking, withdrawn, distant

Tips for Using "Absent" Correctly:

  • Context is crucial: Pay close attention to the sentence and the overall situation to understand which meaning is intended.
  • Use "from" with formal contexts: When referring to a person being removed from a position, use “absent from.”
  • Consider tone: "Absent" can sometimes sound a bit formal or even slightly negative, depending on how it’s used.

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

  • What are you trying to use “absent” in? (e.g., writing a story, a formal email, a casual conversation?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you’re struggling with?

Synonyms for the word absent

Comment ()