What is army? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of army

armynoun

/ˈɑːmi/
Definition & pronunciation of army

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "army" in English. Here's a common and accurate pronunciation:

** /ˈɑːr.mi/**

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  • ˈɑːr - This is the first syllable.
    • "ɑː" is a long "a" sound, like in the word "father" or "car." It’s a broad, open vowel sound.
  • mi - This is the second syllable.
    • "mi" sounds like the "me" in "meet." It’s a short “i” sound.

Putting it together: It's pronounced roughly as "ahr-mi."

Tips for getting it right:

  • Emphasis: The emphasis is on the first syllable (“ahr”).
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:
    • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce army" on Google. You'll get audio examples.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/army/ - This website has audio pronunciations by native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce army" - you'll find many videos.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you some more examples of words with similar vowel sounds?

Usage and examples with the word army in English

Let's break down how to use the word "army" in English. It's a versatile word with different meanings and usages! Here's a breakdown categorized for clarity:

1. Literal Meaning: A Military Force

  • Definition: This is the primary meaning – a large organized military force of a country or state.
  • Examples:
    • "The army marched towards the border."
    • "The president addressed the army on the importance of discipline."
    • "He served in the army during the war."
    • "The army is responsible for defending the country."

2. Figurative Meanings – Large Group/Collective

This is where "army" becomes more creative and less about literal soldiers. It’s used to describe a large group of people working together, often with a shared goal.

  • a) Enthusiastic Supporters/Fans: This is a very common usage.
    • "She has an army of fans waiting for her new album." (Meaning: a huge number of fans)
    • "The band’s social media campaign generated an army of online followers."
    • "He built an army of volunteers to help with the charity event."
  • b) Assistants/Staff: Used to describe a team of people supporting someone.
    • "The CEO has an army of assistants to handle his schedule.” (Meaning: a large team of assistants)
    • "The company employs an army of customer service representatives."
  • c) People Doing Something Repeatedly (often in a slightly humorous way):
    • “She has an army of people constantly emailing her suggestions.” (Meaning: a large, persistent group)
    • “The protesters formed an army of demonstrators.”

3. Less Common Uses

  • a) A large group of creatures: (Rare, often literary)

    • “An army of ants marched across the picnic blanket.”

  • b) A force of nature: (Very rare and poetic)

    • “A fearsome army of waves crashed against the shore.”

Important Considerations & Nuances:

  • Tone: Using “army” to describe fans or supporters can sound a bit dramatic or over-the-top. It's best used when there's a clear sense of enthusiasm and scale.
  • Context is Key: The meaning of "army" is almost entirely determined by the context in which it’s used.
  • Alternatives: If you want a less forceful/figurative option, consider words like: group, team, crowd, cohort, force, following.

Let’s test your understanding:

Which of these sentences correctly uses “army?”

  1. “The detective had an army of informants.”
  2. “The team needed an army of support to win the game.”
  3. “The general commanded his army on the battlefield.”
  4. “He’s an army of squirrels hoarding nuts in the backyard.”

Answers: 1 & 3 are correct. (Sentences 2 & 4 use "army" in a figurative sense that’s less common and potentially a little strong.)

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

  • What are you trying to write/say where you want to use the word "army"? (A short sentence or paragraph would be helpful).

Synonyms for the word army

Comment ()