What is active? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of active

activeadjective

/ˈaktɪv/
Definition & pronunciation of active

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "active" in English. Here's a breakdown with syllables and sounds:

1. Syllables:

The word "active" has two syllables:

  • ak - tive

2. Sounds:

  • ak: This part sounds like "ahk" – a short, crisp "ah" sound, like in the word "cat."
  • tive: This part sounds like "tee-v" – "tee" as in "tea" and "v" as in "very". It's a smooth, connected sound.

3. Putting it Together:

Say it as one word: ahk-tee-v

4. Resources for Hearing it:

Tips:

  • Don't overemphasize the "t" in "tive." It's a softer "t" than you might use in other words.
  • Focus on the flowing sound between "ak" and "tive."

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word “active”?

Usage and examples with the word active in English

Let's break down how to use the word "active" in English – it's a very versatile word with a lot of different meanings! Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. As an Adjective (Describing a state of being):

  • Meaning: Energetic, lively, engaged, doing something.
  • Examples:
    • “She’s an active participant in the community.” (She’s involved and takes part.)
    • “The active volcano was spewing lava.” (It was showing signs of activity.)
    • “I need to be more active and exercise regularly.” (I need to be energetic and do physical activity.)
    • “The active ingredient in the medicine is…” (The key, working part of the medicine.)

2. As an Adjective (Describing a person):

  • Meaning: Ready to do something; not passive.
  • Examples:
    • “He’s an active learner – he always asks questions.” (He's engaged and participates.)
    • “This is an active duty soldier.” (Currently serving in the military.)
    • "Let's be active in preventing deforestation." (Let's take action to stop it.)

3. As a Verb (Describing an action):

  • Meaning: To be engaged in activity; to participate; to work.
  • Examples:
    • “I actived the security system.” (I turned it on and made it operational.) – Note: “Active” as a verb is less common than as an adjective.
    • “He actively seeks out new challenges.” (He's making a conscious effort to find them.)
    • “The students actively participated in the debate.” (They were involved and contributed.)

4. Figurative Uses (More abstract meanings):

  • Meaning: Dynamic, influential, driving force.
  • Examples:
    • "The company is trying to become more active in promoting sustainability." (They're taking steps to be more influential/involved.)
    • "He’s an active contributor to online discussions." (He makes a lot of posts and comments.)

Here’s a table to summarize:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Adjective Energetic, involved An active child
Adjective Ready to act An active investor
Verb To be engaged, to act I actively listen to my friends
Figurative Dynamic, influential An active member of the team

Tips for Using "Active":

  • Consider the context: The meaning of "active" changes depending on how it's used.
  • Synonyms: Think about words like "energetic," "involved," "engaged," "dynamic," "busy," or "vigorous" – these might be more suitable in some situations.

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

  • What kind of context are you thinking about when you want to use "active"? (e.g., describing a person, an object, an event, an idea?)
  • Could you provide a sentence or phrase where you're trying to use "active"?

Synonyms for the word active

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