What is cheese? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of cheese

cheesenoun

/tʃiːz/
Definition & pronunciation of cheese

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

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • /tʃiːz/ (rhymes with "peas")

Let's break that down further:

  • "ch": This is pronounced like the "ch" in "chair" or "church." It's a voiceless palatal fricative.
  • "ee": This is a long "e" sound, like in "see" or "tree." It's a pure vowel.
  • "z": This is a soft "z" sound. It's not a hard "z" like in "zebra." It's more like the "s" in "measure."

Here's a more detailed explanation with some helpful tips:

  1. Start with the "ch": Make a "ch" sound - like you're saying "chair."

  2. Add the "ee" sound: Follow the "ch" with the long "ee" sound – like in “see” or “tree.”

  3. Soft "z" sound: Finally, add a very slight, almost silent "z" sound at the very end. This is key to it feeling right. Don't overemphasize it.

Resources to hear the pronunciation:

  • Google Translate: Type "cheese" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/cheese/ – This website has pronunciations by native speakers.
  • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce cheese" on YouTube and watch a video demonstration.

Important Note: There are regional variations in pronunciation. In some parts of the US (particularly New England), it might be pronounced closer to /siːz/, but /tʃiːz/ is the most widely understood and accepted.

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

  • Where are you from? (Knowing your native language can help me understand potential pronunciation challenges.)

Usage and examples with the word cheese in English

Let's break down how to use the word "cheese" in English! It's a surprisingly versatile word with multiple meanings. Here's a breakdown categorized by usage:

1. The Food - Dairy Cheese:

  • Definition: This is the most common meaning – a solid food made from milk, typically by coagulating (curdling) it.
  • Examples:
    • "I love eating cheese with crackers."
    • "She put cheese on her pizza."
    • "There are many different types of cheese, like cheddar, mozzarella, and brie."
    • "He made a grilled cheese sandwich."
    • "The shop sells a wide selection of artisanal cheese."

2. Slang - "Looking Attractive" (Especially Women):

  • Definition: This is a very common and somewhat dated slang term. It means a woman is considered attractive, often described as having a pleasing or charming appearance. It's important to note this usage is often considered somewhat flirtatious and can be seen as objectifying if used inappropriately.
  • Examples:
    • “She looked really cheese in that dress.” (Meaning: She looked attractive in that dress.)
    • “He thought she was quite cheese.” (Meaning: He found her attractive.)
    • Important Note: Be very careful using this term. It’s often best to avoid it in formal settings or if you're unsure of the recipient’s reaction. There are usually better, less potentially problematic ways to express admiration.

3. Slang - A Trick or Prank (Often Involving a Surprise):

  • Definition: A "cheese" is a prank or trick, usually involving someone being surprised or misled. It’s often a playful deception.
  • Examples:
    • "Let's do a cheese on him when he walks in!" (Meaning: Let’s prank him when he walks in.)
    • "He fell for the cheese – he really believed the story." (Meaning: He was tricked/easily believed the story.)
    • "Don't try to cheese me!" (Meaning: Don't try to trick me!)

4. Cheese (as a sound - with a "sh" sound):

  • Definition: This is a less common usage, but you might hear "cheese" pronounced with a "sh" sound (like "shess") when imitating a surprised or startled animal (typically a mouse).
  • Example:
    • A cartoon mouse might squeak "Cheese!"

5. Cheese (as a fabric):

  • Definition: A type of knitted fabric, usually made of wool, that is ribbed and slightly elastic.
  • Example: “She bought a cozy cheese sweater.”

Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right meaning:

  • If you're talking about food, use the first definition ("dairy cheese").
  • If you're using it as slang to describe a woman's appearance, be very cautious and consider whether it's appropriate for the context. There are usually better alternatives.
  • If you're talking about a prank, use the third definition ("a trick").
  • If you’re imitating a mouse squeak, use the fourth definition ("sh").
  • If you’re talking about fabric, use the fifth definition ("a knitted fabric").

Resources for Further Learning:

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of a specific usage of "cheese"?
  • Explain how to use "cheese" in a particular sentence?
  • Discuss the history or etymology of the word?

Synonyms for the word cheese

Idioms of the word cheese

a big cheese
(informal, humorous)an important and powerful person, especially in an organization
    chalk and cheese
    (British English)if two people or things are like chalk and cheese or as different as chalk and cheese, they are completely different from each other
    • Frank and I will never get along. We’re chalk and cheese.
    hard cheese
    (British English, informal)used as a way of saying that you are sorry about something, usually ironically (= you really mean the opposite)

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