What is angle? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of angle

anglenoun

/ˈaŋɡl/
Definition & pronunciation of angle

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "angle" in English. Here's a breakdown:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ˈæŋɡəl/ (rhymes with "hang-ul")

Let's break it down further:

  • ˈ - This is the primary stress. It means the first syllable is emphasized.
  • æ - This is the "a" sound, like in "cat" or "hat." It's a short, open vowel.
  • ŋ - This is the "ng" sound, as in "sing" or "long." It's a nasal sound - the air comes out through your nose as you say it. Some people might find this tricky at first!
  • ɡəl - This part is fairly straightforward: "guh-l".

Here's a breakdown of how to say it, step by step:

  1. Say "ah" like in "cat."
  2. Add the "ng" sound (like in "sing"). Make sure you feel the air coming through your nose.
  3. Finish with "guh-l".

Resources to help you hear it:

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you some common variations (though the /ˈæŋɡəl/ pronunciation is most standard)?

Usage and examples with the word angle in English

Let's break down how to use the word "angle" – it's a surprisingly versatile word with multiple meanings! Here’s a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. Geometry - The Most Common Meaning: A Measure of an Opening

  • Definition: This is the primary meaning most people think of. It refers to the amount of opening between two lines or surfaces that meet.
  • Examples:
    • "The angle of the roof is 30 degrees."
    • "The angle of the triangle is 90 degrees."
    • "He measured the angle between the streets."
    • "The surveyor used a protractor to find the angle of the land."

2. Position or Orientation

  • Definition: It can describe the direction something is pointing or positioned.
  • Examples:
    • "The picture is hung at a slight angle."
    • "He sat at an angle to the table." (Meaning he wasn’t facing straight forward)
    • “The detective followed a suspicious angle of inquiry.” (Meaning he investigated something in a particular, potentially deceptive, way)

3. A Method or Approach (Often with a slightly negative connotation)

  • Definition: This is where it gets trickier. “Angle” can mean a clever but often manipulative or dishonest approach to achieve something.
  • Examples:
    • "He used a sales angle to persuade her to buy the product." (Meaning he presented the product in a way that was designed to be persuasive, possibly exaggerating its benefits.)
    • "The politician was accused of using a misleading angle in his campaign speech." (Suggesting the speech wasn’t entirely truthful or straightforward.)
    • “Don’t try to angle for a promotion – just focus on doing your job well.” (Meaning don’t try to manipulate your way to a higher position)

4. A Sharp Edge or Corner

  • Definition: Refers to a point where two surfaces meet sharply.
  • Examples:
    • "The knife has a sharp angle."
    • “The building has a dramatic angle at its top."

5. Photography – The Angle of View

  • Definition: Refers to the perspective from which a photograph is taken.
  • Examples:
    • "The photographer adjusted the angle to get a better shot."
    • "A low angle makes the building look more imposing."

6. Phrases Using “Angle”

  • “To angle for something”: To try to get something by using a clever or manipulative approach (similar to #3).
  • “At an angle to…”: Positioned or oriented at an angle.
  • “Under an angle”: Concealed or hidden from view.

Tips for Choosing the Right Meaning:

  • Context is Key: The surrounding words and the situation will almost always indicate which meaning of “angle” is intended.
  • Consider the Tone: The “method/approach” meaning often carries a slightly negative connotation.

Resources for Further Learning:

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

  • What context are you thinking of when you want to use the word "angle"? (e.g., a math problem, a conversation about a job, describing a photograph?)

Synonyms for the word angle

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