What is bawl? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of bawl

bawlverb

/bɔːl//bɔːl/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "bawl." It's a tricky one for non-native English speakers! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /boʊl/ (rhymes with "bowl")

Let's break that down further:

  • "b": Pronounced as a regular "b" sound – like in "ball."
  • "aw": This is the tricky part. It’s a diphthong, meaning it's a combination of two vowel sounds. It’s somewhere between the "a" in "father" and the "o" in "go." Think of it as a slightly rounded, open sound. It's not like the “a” in “cat.” It's an "aw" sound, but often shortened and softened.
  • "l": Pronounced as a regular "l" sound.

Here's how it sounds:

Imagine saying "bowel" but with a softer, more relaxed "ow" sound.

Some helpful tips:

  • Don't say "baul." This is a common mistake.
  • Focus on that "bo-" part. That’s the easiest part.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:
    • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce 'bawl'" on Google and you'll find audio examples.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/bawl/ – This website allows you to hear the word pronounced by native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce bawl" on YouTube.

Would you like me to:

  • Describe the sound in more detail?
  • Give you some example sentences to help you practice?

Usage and examples with the word bawl in English

Let's break down how to use the word "bawl" in English. It's a fascinating word with a surprisingly nuanced meaning! It's often misunderstood, so let's cover all the bases.

1. The Original, Animalistic Meaning (and its resurgence):

  • Historically: "Bawl" originally referred to the loud, mournful cry of a dog or other animal, especially a calf. Think of a puppy feeling lost and wailing.

  • Re-emergence in modern slang: In recent years (particularly in the 2010s and continuing), "bawl" has experienced a resurgence as slang meaning to cry intensely, or to sob uncontrollably. This use is often associated with emotional distress, heartbreak, or overwhelming sadness.

    • Example: “She bawled when she heard the news.”
    • Example: “He bawled his eyes out after the game.”

2. As a Verb (Meaning to Cry):

This is the most common usage today, especially in informal speech and writing.

  • Strong, Intense Crying: It implies a deep, unrestrained crying fit. It’s more emphatic than simply saying "cry."
  • Variations: You might hear: “bawling,” “bawled,” “bawling her eyes out,” “was bawling.”

3. As a Noun (Less Common):

  • A Cry (Past Tense): It can occasionally be used to describe a single cry, often a distressed one.
    • Example: “She let out a bawl of pain.” (This is less frequent than using "cry.")

Here’s a comparison to help clarify:

Feature Cry Bawl
Intensity Moderate Intense, Overwhelming
Formality Formal, Neutral Informal, Slangy
Typical Context General sadness Profound sadness, heartbreak, distress

Tips for Using "Bawl":

  • Context is Key: Be mindful of your audience. “Bawl” is generally best suited for informal conversation, writing, or situations where you want to convey significant emotion. It might feel a bit too casual for formal writing.
  • Don't Overuse: Like any word, overuse can diminish its impact.
  • Pair it with Emotion: Using "bawl" effectively usually involves describing why the person is bawling.

Resources to Explore:

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of how to use "bawl" in sentences?
  • Compare it to similar words (e.g., sob, weep)?
  • Explain how the resurgence of "bawl" as slang happened?

Synonyms for the word bawl

Practice with vocabulary bawl

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. After receiving the devastating news, she began to openly ______ in front of everyone.
  2. The drill sergeant would often ______ orders at the recruits, demanding immediate compliance.
  3. Despite his efforts to remain stoic, a single tear managed to ______ down his cheek.
  4. During the crucial negotiation, the CEO firmly ______ his stance, leaving no room for further discussion.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following describes a person crying very loudly and unrestrainedly? a) whisper b) sob c) bawl d) mumble

  2. When a coach bawls out a player, what is he likely doing? a) Offering quiet encouragement. b) Shouting angrily or scolding. c) Discussing strategies calmly. d) Expressing loud disapproval.

  3. The manager had to ______ at his team to meet the tight deadline for the quarterly report. a) implore b) shout c) bawl d) whisper

  4. Which word best completes the sentence: "He tends to ______ about minor inconveniences rather than addressing them constructively." a) lament b) praise c) commend d) celebrate

  5. The new policy was implemented ______ the board's unanimous decision. a) according to b) in spite of c) due for d) prior with

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The child was crying loudly and inconsolably after dropping his ice cream. (Rewrite using "bawl")
  2. The supervisor yelled at the intern for the significant error in the presentation. (Rewrite using "bawl" or a related word form)
  3. She expressed her deep sorrow over the unexpected closure of the community center. (Rewrite using a suitable replacement word, not "bawl")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. bawl
  2. bawl
  3. trickle
  4. stated

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) sob, c) bawl
  2. b) Shouting angrily or scolding., d) Expressing loud disapproval.
  3. b) shout, c) bawl
  4. a) lament
  5. a) according to

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The child began to bawl inconsolably after dropping his ice cream.
  2. The supervisor proceeded to bawl out the intern for the significant error in the presentation.
  3. She lamented the unexpected closure of the community center.

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