What is appointment? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of appointment

appointmentnoun

/əˈpɔɪntm(ə)nt/
Definition & pronunciation of appointment

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "appointment" in English. It's a bit of a tricky one! Here's a breakdown and a few tips:

The General Pronunciation:

  • /ˌæpˈpoɪntmənt/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. "ap" - like "app" as in "apple" (short "a" sound)
  2. "point" - rhymes with "joint" (emphasis on the "oint" part - think "toy" but with an "o" sound)
  3. "ment" - like "ment" as in "comment" (short "e" sound)

Here’s a helpful way to say it:

  • "App-point-ment" (Slight pause between "point" and "ment")

Here's a breakdown with sounds:

  • ahp (like "app")
  • poynt (like "point")
  • ment (like "ment")

Resources to Listen:

Tips for Getting it Right:

  • Don't overemphasize the first syllable. It’s easy to put too much stress on "ap."
  • Focus on the "oint" sound in "point." That’s the key.
  • Practice saying it slowly at first, and then gradually speed up.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation for you?
  • Give you a more detailed explanation of a specific part of the word?

Usage and examples with the word appointment in English

Let's break down how to use the word "appointment" in English. It's a really common word, but it has a few different nuances.

1. Core Meaning: A Scheduled Meeting

The most common use of "appointment" is to describe a pre-arranged meeting with someone, usually for a specific purpose.

  • Example: "I have a doctor’s appointment next Tuesday at 2 pm."
  • Example: "Please make an appointment with the receptionist."
  • Example: "She keeps all her appointments."

2. Formal vs. Informal Usage

  • Formal: "Appointment" is often used in more formal contexts – business, healthcare, legal settings.
  • Informal: You might sometimes hear "meeting" instead, especially in less structured situations.

3. Different Types of Appointments

Here are some specific types of appointments:

  • Medical Appointment: (Doctor, dentist, therapist, etc.) – “I need to book a dental appointment.”
  • Business Appointment: (Meeting with a client, employer, etc.) – “We had a crucial appointment with potential investors.”
  • Salon Appointment: (Haircut, manicure, etc.) – “I have a hair appointment at 10 am.”
  • Court Appointment: (Meeting with a lawyer, a judge) – “She has an appointment to appear in court.”
  • Appointment with a Representative: (Meeting with a salesperson, a customer service agent) - "I scheduled an appointment to discuss the warranty."

4. Phrases Using “Appointment”

  • Keep an appointment: To attend a scheduled meeting. - “I always try to keep my appointments.”
  • Miss an appointment: To fail to attend a scheduled meeting. – “Sorry I missed our appointment – traffic was terrible.”
  • Confirm an appointment: To make sure a scheduled meeting is still happening. – “Could you confirm my appointment for tomorrow?”
  • Schedule an appointment: To arrange a meeting. - "I'm going to schedule an appointment with a stylist."
  • Double appointment: A back-to-back appointment. – "The doctor gave me a double appointment so I could address both issues."

5. Important Note: "Appoint" (the verb)

Don't confuse “appointment” (the noun) with “appoint” (the verb), which means to officially assign someone to a position or role.

  • Example: “The president appointed a new Secretary of State.” (The verb – assigning the role)
  • Example: “She has a doctor’s appointment.” (The noun – a scheduled meeting)

Resources for Further Learning:

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

  • What context are you interested in using "appointment" in? (e.g., talking about scheduling, describing a medical visit, etc.)

Synonyms for the word appointment

Practice with vocabulary appointment

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. She scheduled an ________ with her dentist for next Tuesday.
  2. The manager decided to organize a team ________ to discuss the new project.
  3. I need to confirm my ________ at the clinic before I leave.
  4. His ________ for the interview is at 10 AM sharp.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which word refers to a prearranged meeting?
    a) Appointment
    b) Reservation
    c) Deadline
    d) Conference

  2. What do you call a formal arrangement to meet someone?
    a) Schedule
    b) Appointment
    c) Assignment
    d) Event

  3. Which word could replace "appointment" in this sentence: "He missed his ________ with the lawyer."
    a) Meeting
    b) Interview
    c) Deadline
    d) Reservation

  4. What is the correct term for booking a seat at a restaurant?
    a) Appointment
    b) Reservation
    c) Schedule
    d) Assignment

  5. Which word is used for a planned time to visit a professional?
    a) Appointment
    b) Conference
    c) Task
    d) Event

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: She has a meeting with her boss tomorrow.
    Rewrite: She has an ________ with her boss tomorrow.

  2. Original: The doctor’s slot is available at 3 PM.
    Rewrite: The doctor’s ________ is available at 3 PM.

  3. Original: He needs to arrange a consultation with the consultant.
    Rewrite: He needs to organize a ________ with the consultant.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. appointment
  2. meeting
  3. appointment
  4. appointment

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) Appointment
  2. b) Appointment
  3. a) Meeting
  4. b) Reservation
  5. a) Appointment

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. She has an appointment with her boss tomorrow.
  2. The doctor’s appointment is available at 3 PM.
  3. He needs to organize a meeting with the consultant.

Comment ()