What is cell? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of cell

cellnoun

/sɛl/
Definition & pronunciation of cell

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "cell" in English. It's a tricky one because it's a common source of confusion!

Here's the standard pronunciation, and then a breakdown of what makes it tricky:

Standard Pronunciation:

  • ˈsel (stress is on the first syllable)

Let's break it down phonetically (using sounds):

  • ˈ - This represents a primary stress. It means you'll emphasize this syllable more than the others.
  • sel - This is how you say the syllable itself. It sounds like "sell" but with a shorter “e” sound.

Here's how it sounds:

Imagine a short "se" sound followed by a very short “l” sound. It's a quick, clipped sound.

Why it's confusing:

  • The “ell” sound: Many people try to pronounce it like "sell," which is a common mistake. But the "cell" pronunciation is distinct.
  • The vowel: The vowel sound in "cell" is often described as a schwa sound (ə), which is a very neutral, relaxed vowel sound. It's not like the "e" in "bed" or the "e" in "say." It's a quick, almost swallowed sound.

Tips for getting it right:

  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it. Search for "how to pronounce cell" on YouTube and listen to several examples from native English speakers.
  • Mimic the sound: Try repeating after a native speaker, focusing on the quick, clipped "se" sound followed by the short "l."
  • Don't over-emphasize: It’s a quick sound, avoid lengthening it.

Resources for Hearing Pronunciation:

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of words with a similar sound?
  • Focus on a specific aspect of the pronunciation (like the vowel sound)?

Usage and examples with the word cell in English

The word "cell" has a surprisingly wide range of meanings in English! Here's a breakdown of how to use it, categorized for clarity:

1. Biology - The Most Common Meaning:

  • Definition: A basic structural and functional unit of all known living organisms. Think of it as the smallest unit that can perform life functions.
  • Examples:
    • "Each cell contains DNA."
    • "Scientists study cells under a microscope."
    • "Cancer develops when cells divide uncontrollably."
    • "Red cells (also known as erythrocytes) carry oxygen."

2. Physical Structures:

  • Definition: A small room or enclosed space. Often used to denote a simple, bare space.
  • Examples:
    • "He was held in a prison cell." (think of a small jail cell)
    • "The cell was cold and damp."
    • "The artist worked in a small, private cell in the castle."
    • "The scientists kept their experiments in a secure cell."

3. Telecommunications (Older Term):

  • Definition: A unit of communication, particularly in early telephone systems. Less common now, but you might encounter it in discussions of historical technology.
  • Example: "The cell system greatly improved long-distance phone calls." (more common: mobile network)

4. Chemistry:

  • Definition: A fundamental unit of matter, such as an atom or molecule. (less commonly used in informal conversation, usually in scientific contexts)
  • Example: "A cell is composed of atoms."

5. Computing (Slang - somewhat dated):

  • Definition: (Informal) A group of users who communicate via the internet, typically connected through a specific forum, chat room, or online community. This is an older usage and less common currently.
  • Example: "They're part of a gaming cell online."

6. Music (Technically, a "musical cell"):

  • Definition: A small, repeating musical phrase.
  • Example: "The composer used musical cells throughout the piece."

Key Points & Tips:

  • Context is crucial: The meaning of "cell" depends entirely on the context in which it’s used.
  • Consider the subject: If the conversation is about science, biology is likely the intended meaning. If it’s about law or jails, it’s a physical room.

Resources for Further Learning:

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

  • What is the context in which you want to use the word "cell"? (e.g., are you writing an essay, talking about biology, etc.)

Synonyms for the word cell

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