What is charity? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of charity

charitynoun

/ˈtʃarɪti/
Definition & pronunciation of charity

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "charity" in English. Here's a breakdown, with a few variations:

Most Common Pronunciation (American English):

  • ˈtʃær.ɪ.ti (stress is on the first syllable)

Let's break that down further:

  • ˈtʃær: This is the tricky part for many learners. It’s a blend of sounds:

    • ch: Like the "ch" in "chair"
    • a: Like the "a" in "father" (a broad "a" sound)
    • r: A quick, light "r" - don’t over-emphasize it.

  • ɪ: This is a short, “i” sound, like in “bit” or “sit.”

  • ti: This is just the simple “ti” sound, as in “tea.”

British English Pronunciation:

  • ˈtʃær.ə.ti (stress on the first syllable)

The difference is just the vowel sound in the second syllable. It's a shorter, more closed "ə" (schwa) sound – think of how you might say “about.”

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to get it right is to hear it. Search for “how to pronounce charity” on YouTube or listen to online dictionaries (like Merriam-Webster or Cambridge Dictionary – both have audio pronunciations).
  • Focus on the “ch” sound: Really try to get the “ch” sound correct.
  • Don’t over-emphasize the “r”: The "r" is subtle.

Resources:

Would you like me to:

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

Usage and examples with the word charity in English

Let's break down how to use the word "charity" in English. It's a word with a lot of nuances, so let's cover different ways it's used.

1. As a Noun - The Core Meaning

  • Definition: "Charity" generally refers to an organization or group that helps people who are poor, sick, or in need. It's about giving help and support to those less fortunate.

  • Examples:

    • “We donate to a local charity that helps homeless people.”
    • “She volunteers her time at a charity shop.”
    • “The charity received a large donation from a wealthy benefactor.”
    • “He’s passionate about animal charity.”

2. Different Types of Charities

There are many kinds of charities, each focusing on a specific area:

  • Welfare Charities: These help people with basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing (e.g., Salvation Army, Red Cross).
  • Medical Charities: Focused on healthcare research, treatment, or support for patients (e.g., Cancer Research UK, Doctors Without Borders).
  • Educational Charities: Support schools, scholarships, or learning programs (e.g., Save the Children, Room to Read).
  • Environmental Charities: Work to protect the environment (e.g., Greenpeace, WWF).
  • Animal Charities: Help animals in need (e.g., RSPCA, Humane Society).
  • Disaster Relief Charities: Provide aid after natural disasters (e.g., Oxfam, UNICEF).

3. "Charitable" as an Adjective

  • Definition: “Charitable” describes something that is kind, generous, and willing to help others. It's an adjective used to describe actions or behavior.

  • Examples:

    • “He was a charitable man who always helped those in need.”
    • “The company is known for its charitable donations.”
    • "She made a charitable contribution to the hospital.”
    • “It's charitable to forgive someone who has wronged you.”

4. Phrases with "Charity"

  • "To give to charity": This is a common phrase meaning to donate money or goods to a charitable organization. “I plan to give to charity this holiday season.”
  • "A charitable disposition": Describes someone who is naturally kind and generous. "She has a charitable disposition and always gives to those less fortunate."
  • "Charity begins at home": A proverb meaning that you should help your family and friends before helping strangers.
  • “Run a charity”: To organize or manage a charitable organization. "They run a charity that supports refugees."

5. Important Considerations

  • Scams: Be aware of charities that may not be legitimate. Do your research before donating. Websites like Charity Navigator (in the US) and GiveWell (global) evaluate charities and rate their effectiveness.

  • Tax Deductions: In some countries (like the U.S.), donations to registered charities are tax-deductible, so you can get a tax break for your giving.

Resources for Further Research:

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

  • What are you trying to write about? (e.g., a personal letter, an essay, marketing material for a charity?)
  • What is the specific context in which you want to use the word "charity"?

Synonyms for the word charity

Idioms of the word charity

charity begins at home
(saying)you should help and care for your own family, etc. before you start helping other people

    Practice with vocabulary charity

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. The local __________ organized a food drive to help the homeless.
    2. She decided to donate her old clothes to a __________ instead of throwing them away.
    3. The organization focuses on providing __________ to communities in need, such as clean water and education.
    4. Many people volunteer their time to support __________ causes, but others prefer to donate money.

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

    1. Which word refers to an organization that helps those in need?
      a) Charity
      b) Foundation
      c) Business
      d) Corporation

    2. What is the best way to describe the act of giving to those less fortunate?
      a) Compassion
      b) Charity
      c) Investment
      d) Profit

    3. Which of the following is primarily associated with voluntary help?
      a) Charity
      b) Employment
      c) Scholarship
      d) Competition

    4. Which term refers to a generous act without expecting anything in return?
      a) Kindness
      b) Generosity
      c) Philanthropy
      d) All of the above

    5. What do you call a person who donates money or resources to support a cause?
      a) Volunteer
      b) Donor
      c) Activist
      d) Sponsor

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. Original: She contributed to the fundraiser to help the victims of the disaster.
      Rewrite: She donated to the charity to assist the disaster victims.

    2. Original: The organization provides aid to underprivileged children.
      Rewrite: The charity offers support to underprivileged children.

    3. Original: The act of giving can make a significant difference in someone’s life.
      Rewrite: Generosity can have a profound impact on someone’s life.

    Answer:

    Exercise 1:

    1. charity
    2. charity
    3. aid
    4. philanthropic

    Exercise 2:

    1. a) Charity, b) Foundation
    2. b) Charity
    3. a) Charity
    4. d) All of the above
    5. b) Donor

    Exercise 3:

    1. She donated to the charity to assist the disaster victims.
    2. The charity offers support to underprivileged children.
    3. Generosity can have a profound impact on someone’s life.

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