What is bonus? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of bonus

bonusnoun

/ˈbəʊnəs/
Definition & pronunciation of bonus

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "bonus" in English. It's a tricky one because it doesn't follow typical English phonetic rules!

Here's the most common and accepted pronunciation, broken down:

Pronunciation: /ˈbɒnəs/ (This is IPA, International Phonetic Alphabet)

Let's break that down further:

  • ˈbɒn: This part is key. It sounds like "bon" as in "bone" but with a slightly more open 'o' sound. It’s a short, rounded "o" sound. Think of the "o" in "hot" but a bit softer. The stress is on this syllable.

  • əs: This part is pronounced like "us" – a short, unstressed ‘uh’ sound.

Putting it together: It sounds like "bon-us" but the "on" is a bit more emphasized and has that slightly rounded "o" sound.

Here are some helpful tips:

  • Don't say "bonus" like you would "bonus" in a sentence about a prize. That's a very common mistake.

  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are a few resources:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "bonus"?

Usage and examples with the word bonus in English

Let's break down how to use the word "bonus" in English. It has several different meanings and uses. Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. Financial Bonus (Most Common)

  • Definition: An extra sum of money given to someone, usually as a reward for good work, performance, or loyalty.
  • Examples:
    • "She received a bonus for exceeding her sales targets."
    • "The company offered a performance bonus to its top-performing employees."
    • "I got a holiday bonus at Christmas."
    • “He’s expecting a large bonus this year because of the company’s profits.”
  • Grammatical Notes: It’s typically used as a noun.

2. Bonus (As an Adjective - Describing Something Extra)

  • Definition: Used to describe something that is an extra benefit or advantage.
  • Examples:
    • “This package comes with a bonus DVD.” (Meaning an extra DVD included)
    • “The plane ticket includes a bonus of free baggage allowance.”
    • “He offered a bonus incentive to encourage them to sign up.” (Meaning an extra incentive)

3. Bonus (In Sports - A Free Point/Opportunity)

  • Definition: In sports like basketball or hockey, a "bonus" is an extra point or opportunity awarded due to a specific circumstance (e.g., an opponent's penalty, a particularly difficult shot).
  • Examples:
    • “They earned a bonus point for starting the game with a three-pointer.” (Basketball)
    • "He got a bonus shot after being fouled." (Basketball)

4. Bonus (Informal - A Lucky Break/Positive Outcome)

  • Definition: Used informally to describe a stroke of luck or a favorable outcome, especially when it wasn’t expected. It’s like saying "a lucky bonus."
  • Examples:
    • “I lost my wallet, but then I found $50 on the street – it was a real bonus!”
    • "It was a bonus that we found a parking spot right in front of the theatre."

Key Things to Remember:

  • Spelling: Always double-check your spelling – “bonus” is one word.
  • Context is King: The meaning of “bonus” depends heavily on the context in which it's used.

Resources for More Information:

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

  • What kind of context are you interested in? (e.g., business, sports, everyday conversation?)

Synonyms for the word bonus

Practice with vocabulary bonus

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The sales team received a significant ______ for exceeding their quarterly targets by a wide margin.
  2. To encourage professional development, the company launched a new ______ program that offers financial assistance for employees pursuing further education.
  3. As an added ______, employees who complete the advanced certification course will receive an extra week of paid leave.
  4. University students often apply for a monthly ______ to cover living expenses during their studies abroad.

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

  1. Which of the following can be considered an additional payment or benefit given beyond the standard salary, often as a reward for performance? a) Wage b) Salary c) Bonus d) Pension e) Overtime pay

  2. Employees are eligible for a performance ______ if they exceed their sales targets by 20% in the current quarter. a) bonus b) fee c) invoice d) charge

  3. Which of these terms typically refers to an extra payment given to an employee, often for good performance or as a special gift? a) Bonus b) Commission c) Stipend d) Deduction e) Allowance

  4. The primary goal of this new policy is to provide a strong ______ for innovation within the research and development department. a) deterrent b) incentive c) burden d) sanction

  5. What term best describes the total payment or reward an employee receives for their work, including salary, benefits, and other financial rewards? a) Severance b) Remuneration c) Endowment d) Subsidies

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The company decided to give employees an extra sum of money because of their excellent performance this year. Rewrite the sentence using "bonus" or a related word form.

  2. The team received additional payments for completing the project ahead of schedule. Rewrite the sentence using "bonus" or a related word form.

  3. The unexpected extra feature in the software package was a pleasant surprise for users. Rewrite the sentence using a suitable replacement word, not "bonus".

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. bonus
  2. incentive
  3. bonus
  4. stipend

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) Bonus, e) Overtime pay
  2. a) bonus
  3. a) Bonus, b) Commission
  4. b) incentive
  5. b) Remuneration

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The company decided to award employees a performance bonus for their excellent performance this year.
  2. The team received bonuses for completing the project ahead of schedule.
  3. The unexpected perk in the software package was a pleasant surprise for users. (or added value)

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