What is circumstance? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of circumstance

circumstancenoun

/ˈsəːkəmst(ə)ns//ˈsəːkəmstɑːns/
Definition & pronunciation of circumstance

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "circumstance." It's a tricky word, but with a little practice, you can get it right! Here's a breakdown and a few tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (For Accuracy):

The most accurate phonetic transcription would be: /ˌsɜːr.kəmˈstɑːns/ (British English) or /ˌsɜːr.kəmˈstæns/ (American English)

Let's break that down:

  • ˌsɜːr: This is the first syllable. It's pronounced like "sir" (as in, "Sir Isaac Newton"). The "r" is a retroflex r – your tongue curls back slightly towards the roof of your mouth. This is a key difference between American and British pronunciation.
  • ˈstɑːns/ˈstæns: This is the second syllable. It's pronounced like "stance" or "tones." The stress (the emphasized syllable) is on this syllable. The 'a' sound here is broad, like in “father”.

2. A Step-by-Step Guide (For Easier Learning):

  1. "Sir": Start with the sound of "sir." That sets you up for the first syllable.

  2. "Cum": Next, quickly add the sound of "cum" (as in, "come") - it's a very short, almost silent "m" sound right after the "sir."

  3. "Stance/Tones": Then, say the word "stance" or “tones,” emphasizing the “a” sound. This is the second syllable.

3. Key Differences (American vs. British):

  • Retroflex R (British): The British pronunciation uses a retroflex 'r' – this is the tongue curling back. Americans tend to use a more standard 'r' sound.
  • 'a' sound in the second syllable: The British version often has a broader 'a' sound (like in “father”), while American English often uses a shorter 'a' sound ("stance").

4. Listen to Examples:

  • Google: Search "how to pronounce circumstance" on Google. You’ll find audio clips from native speakers.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/circumstance/ (This website has pronunciations by many different speakers, allowing you to hear various accents.)
  • YouTube: Search "pronounce circumstance" on YouTube.

Resources for Practicing Retroflex 'R':

  • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce retroflex r" – there are many tutorials! It takes some practice to get the tongue movement right.

To help me tailor the explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • Are you aiming for a British or American pronunciation?

Usage and examples with the word circumstance in English

Let's break down how to use the word "circumstance" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances.

1. Core Meaning: A Fact or Condition

At its most basic, “circumstance” refers to a fact or condition surrounding something. It's essentially a situation or * обстоятельство*.

  • Example: "Due to the unexpected rain, the outdoor concert was cancelled, a regrettable circumstance." (The rain is the circumstance leading to the cancellation.)
  • Example: "The circumstances of her arrival were unusual – she flew in on a private plane." (The details of her arrival are the circumstances.)

2. Common Uses and Examples:

Here's how "circumstance" is often used in different contexts:

  • Explaining a situation: “The witness’ testimony was affected by the difficult circumstances of the crime scene.” (The challenges at the scene are the circumstances.)
  • Describing a background: “Understanding the circumstances surrounding the decision is crucial to appreciating its impact.” (Learning about the backstory is important.)
  • Referring to external factors: "His success was largely due to favorable circumstances – a strong economy and a supportive family." (These external factors played a role.)
  • Referring to a particular situation: "I apologized for the misunderstanding, explaining it was due to a simple circumstance." (This specific situation caused the problem.)
  • Legal Context: "The lawyer presented evidence of the circumstances surrounding the accident to argue for a lesser charge.” (The details of what happened are key.)

3. Related Words & Phrases:

  • Circumstantial: (Adjective) - Relating to circumstances; based on evidence but not direct proof. “The evidence was circumstantial, so the jury couldn’t be sure of his guilt.”
  • Circumstantial evidence: Evidence that suggests something but doesn't prove it directly.
  • Under the circumstances: Considering the situation as it is. “Under the circumstances, I think we should postpone the meeting.”
  • In light of the circumstances: Taking the situation into account. "In light of the circumstances, I'm willing to compromise."

4. Grammatical Considerations:

  • Noun: “Circumstance” is always a noun. You don't make it plural (there’s no “circumstances” unless you’re referring to different situations).
  • Formal Tone: "Circumstance" is generally considered a more formal word than "situation" or "condition." It’s frequently used in writing and more formal speech.

5. How to Choose the Right Word:

While "circumstance" and "situation" are often interchangeable, here's a quick guide:

  • Situation: More general; describes a state of affairs. “It’s a difficult situation.”
  • Circumstance: More specific; focuses on the facts or conditions that contribute to a situation. “The circumstances surrounding the event were complex.”

Resources for Further Learning:

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of how to use the word in a specific context (e.g., business, legal, personal)?
  • Explain the nuance of "circumstantial" further?
  • Provide a practice exercise to test your understanding?

Synonyms for the word circumstance

Idioms of the word circumstance

in/under the circumstances
used before or after a statement to show that you have thought about the conditions that affect a situation before making a decision or a statement
  • Under the circumstances, it seemed better not to tell him about the accident.
  • She did the job very well in the circumstances.
  • In the circumstances, you'd better call the police.
in/under no circumstances
used to emphasize that something should never happen or be allowed
  • Under no circumstances should you lend Paul any money.
  • Don't open the door, in any circumstances.
  • Under no circumstances should you leave the door unlocked.
pomp and circumstance
formal and impressive ceremony
  • Funerals of famous people were conducted with great pomp and circumstance.
reduced circumstances
the state of being poorer than you were before. People say ‘living in reduced circumstances’ to avoid saying ‘poor’.

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