What is chop? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of chop

chopverb

/tʃɒp/
Definition & pronunciation of chop

The word "chop" is pronounced like this:

ˈtʃɒp

Here's a breakdown:

  • ˈtʃ - This is the tricky part! It sounds like the "ch" in "church" or "chair." It's a single, short sound.
  • ɒ - This is the "o" sound as in "hot" or "lot."
  • p - The final "p" is pronounced clearly.

Listen to an example:

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Usage and examples with the word chop in English

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

1. As a Verb (Action - Cutting with Force)

  • Most Common Meaning: This is the most frequent way you'll hear "chop." It means to cut something quickly and forcefully with a sharp tool, usually a knife or axe.
    • Example: “He chopped the vegetables for the soup.”
    • Example: “The lumberjack chopped down the trees.”
    • Example: “She carefully chopped the onion.”
    • Synonyms: Slice, dice, mince, cleave (more formal)

2. As a Verb (To Reduce, Often Sounds/Noise)

  • Chopping Sounds: "Chop" can describe the sound of something being cut, especially with a dull blade.
    • Example: “The butcher’s cleaver made a loud chop as he worked.”
    • Example: “I heard a chop as the branch broke off the tree.”

3. As a Verb (To Discard or Eliminate - Informal)

  • Cutting Something Out: This is a more informal usage – it means to get rid of something, often quickly and decisively.
    • Example: “The company decided to chop several positions to save money.” (Meaning they eliminated those positions.)
    • Example: “He just chopped off all his hair!” (Meaning he cut it all off.)

4. As a Noun (The Action of Cutting)

  • The Act of Chopping: "Chop" can be used as a noun to refer to the process of cutting.
    • Example: “The sound of the chop echoed through the forest.”
    • Example: “He’s a skilled chopper.” (Meaning he's good at cutting.)

5. Figurative Uses (Less Common)

  • To Break or Disrupt: Occasionally, “chop” can be used metaphorically to describe a sudden, jarring disruption or change. This is less common now.
    • Example: “The new policy chopped up our established workflow.” (Meaning it disrupted it.)

Here's a table summarizing the different uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Verb Cut forcefully He chopped the carrots.
Verb Make a chopping sound I heard the chop of the axe.
Verb Eliminate/Discard (informal) They chopped the project budget.
Noun The act of cutting The sound of the chop was loud.
Figurative Disrupt/Break The change chopped up our routine.

Tips for Using "Chop" Correctly:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "chop" is heavily influenced by the context. Pay attention to the surrounding words and the situation.
  • Level of Formality: "Chop" is generally considered informal. “Slice” or “dice” is often more appropriate for formal writing or situations.
  • Sound vs. Action: Be mindful of whether you're referring to the sound of cutting or the action of cutting itself.

Could you give me a sentence where you'd like to use the word "chop," and I can help you choose the most appropriate meaning and phrasing? Or, do you have a specific question about how to use "chop" in a particular situation?

Idioms of the word chop

chop and change
(British English, informal)to keep changing your mind or what you are doing

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