What is chin? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of chin

chinnoun

/tʃɪn/
Definition & pronunciation of chin

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "chin" in English. It's a tricky one for some learners!

Here's a breakdown:

  1. The "ch" sound: This is the most important part. It's not like the "ch" in "chair" or "chocolate." It's a voiceless postalveolar fricative. Think of it as a very quick, light "t" sound. You're making air flow past the back of your tongue and teeth without vibrating your vocal cords. It's a bit like the "ch" in the Scottish word “loch.”

    • Practice: Try saying "t" very quickly, then even faster.

  2. The "in" sound: This is a simple "in" sound, like in "pin" or "tin."

  3. Putting it together: Combine the "ch" sound with the "in" sound.

Therefore, "chin" is pronounced: /tʃɪn/

Here's a phonetic breakdown:

  • /tʃ/ – This represents the "ch" sound (as described above).
  • /ɪn/ – This represents the "in" sound.

Tips for getting it right:

  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it! Search for "how to pronounce chin" on YouTube or use online dictionaries like Merriam-Webster or Cambridge Dictionary, which often have audio pronunciations.
  • Mimic: Try to imitate the sound as closely as possible.
  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying "chin" and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.

Resources:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
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Usage and examples with the word chin in English

Let's break down how to use the word "chin" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with several different meanings and uses! Here's a breakdown categorized for clarity:

1. The Physical Part (The Bone):

  • Definition: This is the most basic meaning – the bony part of the face below your mouth.
  • Examples:
    • "She has a strong chin." (Describing its appearance)
    • "He rubbed his chin thoughtfully." (Action – physically touching it)
    • "The doctor examined her chin for symmetry." (Medical context)

2. Phrases Related to the Chin:

  • Chin up! – This is an idiomatic expression meaning “be optimistic” or “maintain a positive attitude.” It refers to lifting your chin to appear more confident.
    • Example: "You failed the test once. Don’t chin up! Study harder next time."
  • Chin-out: (Informal) This describes a relaxed, horizontal position of the head and jaw, often associated with being relaxed, comfortable, or even slightly sleepy. It's visually depicted as the lower jaw slightly protruding.
    • Example: "He just leaned back in his chair, chin-out, watching TV."
  • Chin deep: – Meaning “completely submerged” or “extremely involved.”
    • Example: "The water was chin deep in the wading pool."
  • Chin the mail: – (Archaic/Regional - mostly in the UK) This means to deliver mail – a very old expression. It comes from the idea of putting your chin down to pick up the mail.

3. Figurative/Metaphorical Uses:

  • “Chin up” (as mentioned above): Demonstrates resilience and a positive outlook.
  • “To chin” (verb - rare): To deliver (mail). You rarely hear this anymore.
  • "Give someone a chin-wag" (British informal): To have a friendly chat or conversation. (Think "chin" as a reference to leaning in to chat.)
    • Example: "Let's chin-wag about the weather."

4. In Combinations:

  • Chin strap: A strap to hold a mask or helmet in place on the chin.
  • Chin rest: A padded support for the chin when reading or using a tablet (especially for kids).
  • Chin music: (Slang – primarily Black American Vernacular) – A taunt or insult, often implying someone is ignorant or oblivious. It’s a very specific, and sometimes offensive, usage. Be very careful using this one – understand its history and potential to offend.

Tips for Using "Chin" Correctly:

  • Context is key: The meaning of “chin” depends heavily on how it’s used in the sentence.
  • Be mindful of idioms: “Chin up!” has a specific meaning that’s different from simply talking about the bone.
  • Regional variations: Some phrases (“chin the mail,” "chin-wag") are more common in certain regions (particularly the UK).

Resources for more information:

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of how to use "chin" in a specific context (e.g., writing, conversation)?
  • Explain a particular phrase involving "chin" in more detail?

Synonyms for the word chin

Idioms of the word chin

(keep your) chin up
(informal)used to tell somebody to try to stay cheerful even though they are in a difficult or unpleasant situation
  • Chin up! Only two exams left.
chuck somebody under the chin
(old-fashioned)to touch somebody gently under the chin (= part of the face below the mouth) in a friendly way
    take something on the chin
    to accept a difficult or unpleasant situation without complaining, trying to make excuses, etc.
    • In this business, you have to learn to take criticism on the chin.
    (North American English)to be damaged or badly affected by something
    • Stockholders took it on the chin yesterday as markets fell sharply.

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