What is bedtime? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of bedtime

bedtimenoun

/ˈbɛdtʌɪm/
Definition & pronunciation of bedtime

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

ˈbed.taɪm

Here's a breakdown of each syllable:

  • ˈbed – This sounds like "bed" - as in, where you sleep. The 'ˈ' symbol indicates the primary stress (emphasis) on this syllable.
  • taɪm – This is trickier. It sounds like "time," but with a slightly different vowel sound. The 'i' is pronounced like the 'i' in "bike" or "hide."

Tips for saying it correctly:

  • Emphasis: Put the stress on the first syllable ("bed").
  • "Time" sound: Really focus on that "time" sound for the second syllable. Don’t say it like “betime.”

You can also listen to examples online:

  • Google: Just type "how to pronounce bedtime" into Google and listen to the audio.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/bedtime/ – This website has recordings of native speakers saying the word.

Would you like me to break down any part of the pronunciation further, or perhaps give you some example sentences using "bedtime"?

Usage and examples with the word bedtime in English

Let's break down how to use the word "bedtime." It's a really common and important word!

1. Basic Meaning:

  • Bedtime refers to the time when someone goes to sleep for the night, specifically when they go to bed.

2. Common Uses & Phrases:

  • "It’s bedtime!" - This is the most frequent way to use it. You're telling someone it’s time to go to sleep. Example: "It's bedtime, sweetie. Time for pajamas!"
  • "What time is bedtime?" - Asking about the scheduled time for sleep. Example: "What time is bedtime tonight?"
  • "Bedtime story" - A story read to a child before they go to sleep. Example: "Mom always reads us a bedtime story."
  • "Bedtime routine" - A set of actions and rituals done before going to bed. Example: "We have a bedtime routine that includes brushing teeth, reading, and a warm bath."
  • "Getting ready for bedtime" - The process of preparing to sleep. Example: "I’m getting ready for bedtime – putting on my pajamas and reading a book."
  • "Bedtime snack" - A small snack eaten before going to bed. (This is often debated – some people discourage it!)

3. Different Contexts:

  • Children: “Bedtime” is most frequently used when talking about kids and their sleep schedules.
  • Adults: While less common, adults can also use "bedtime" to describe their own routine. “I’m trying to go to bed earlier – my bedtime is usually 10 pm.”
  • Animals: You can even use it with pets! "It's bedtime for Buster the dog."

4. Example Sentences Demonstrating Usage:

  • "The children were excited about their bedtime story."
  • "We always make sure to brush our teeth before bedtime."
  • "Do you have a specific bedtime you try to stick to?"
  • "I need to wind down and get ready for bedtime."

Resources for Further Learning:

Do you want me to:

  • Give you some more examples in a specific context (e.g., teaching a child, describing a daily routine)?
  • Focus on a particular aspect of "bedtime" (e.g., common phrases used with children)?

Synonyms for the word bedtime

Practice with vocabulary bedtime

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Establishing a consistent ________ routine can significantly improve sleep quality for adults.
  2. The executive's busy schedule meant his ________ was often delayed until well past midnight.
  3. After intense negotiations, the team yearned for a period of calm and ________.
  4. The doctor advised sufficient ________ to aid the patient's recovery from the illness.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (Select all that apply)

  1. Which of the following activities are commonly associated with a healthy ________ routine? a) Brushing teeth b) Reviewing complex financial reports c) Reading a calming book d) Engaging in strenuous physical exercise
  2. When a child is told, "It's time to get ready for sleep," which term is most appropriate? a) Playtime b) Bedtime c) Mealtime d) Naptime
  3. Which phrases indicate a time when someone typically goes to sleep? a) Early hours b) Nightfall c) Bedtime d) Slumber time
  4. Which word best describes a short period of sleep taken during the day? a) Slumber b) Nap c) Vigil d) Reverie
  5. After the marathon, the athletes desperately needed adequate ________ to recover. a) Rest b) Exertion c) Stimulation d) Alertness

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The time when children typically go to sleep is set at 8 PM in our household. (Rewrite using "bedtime")
  2. Before we go to sleep, we always have a set of activities we do every evening. (Rewrite using a form of "bedtime")
  3. After a long shift, the security guard was eager to simply lie down and close his eyes. (Rewrite without using "bedtime")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. bedtime
  2. bedtime
  3. repose
  4. slumber

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) Brushing teeth, c) Reading a calming book
  2. b) Bedtime
  3. c) Bedtime, d) Slumber time
  4. b) Nap
  5. a) Rest

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Our household's children's bedtime is set at 8 PM.
  2. We always have a set of activities we do every evening as part of our bedtime routine.
  3. After a long shift, the security guard was eager for some repose.

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