What is closed? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of closed

closedadjective

/kləʊzd/
Definition & pronunciation of closed

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "closed" in English. It can be tricky for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /kloʊd/ (rhymes with "road" or "cloud")

Let's break that down further:

  • "cl" – This sound is like the "cl" in "class" or "clean." It’s a single, combined sound.
  • "o" – This is a long "o" sound, like in "go" or "toe." It's a slightly rounded vowel.
  • "sed" – This part is where many people stumble. It’s pronounced like "sed" as in "said," but with a slightly softer "d," almost like a "th" sound (a voiced dental fricative). It’s very subtle.

Here’s a phonetic transcription (a more technical way of writing the sound):

/kloʊd/

Tips for getting it right:

  • Focus on the "road" or "cloud" rhyme: This is the easiest way to get the syllable rhythm right.
  • Round your lips slightly for the "o" sound: This helps give it that longer vowel quality.
  • Don't overemphasize the "d": It blends into the "sed" sound. It's not a hard "d" like in "dog."

Resources for hearing the pronunciation:

  • Google: Simply search "how to pronounce closed" on Google and you’ll find audio clips.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/closed/ - This website has pronunciations from native speakers.
  • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce closed" on YouTube for video demonstrations.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you some example sentences using “closed”?

Usage and examples with the word closed in English

Let's break down how to use the word "closed" 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 - to shut something):

  • To close something physically: This is the most common meaning. It means to shut something, to bring it to an end.
    • Example: “Please close the door.” (Shut the door)
    • Example: "The shop closed at 6 pm." (Finished operating)
    • Example: “Could you close the window? It’s cold.” (Shut the window)
    • Example: “He closed his eyes.” (Covered his eyes shut)
    • Example: “She closed the book.” (Finished reading it)

2. As an Adjective (Describing something that is shut/finished):

  • Closed (describing a location – it’s not open):
    • Example: "The restaurant is closed today." (Not open for business)
    • Example: "The museum will be closed for renovations." (Will not be open)
    • Example: “The office is closed for the holiday.” (Not open)
  • Closed (describing a discussion or process – it’s finished):
    • Example: “The meeting was closed with a vote.” (The meeting ended and a decision was made)
    • Example: “The negotiations are closed.” (The negotiations have finished)
  • Closed (describing an account – it’s inactive):
    • Example: “I closed my bank account.” (I stopped using it)

3. As a Noun (Referring to the state of being shut/finished):

  • Closed (the act of closing something):
    • Example: "The closed door was heavy." (The door was shut)
  • Closed (a period of time – a closure):
    • Example: “There was a closed period during the pandemic.” (A time of being shut down)

Phrases Using "Closed":

  • Closed for business: A common way to announce a shop is closed.
  • Closed to the public: Not open for anyone to enter.
  • Closed and secured: Closed and locked.
  • Closed-minded: Unwilling to consider other viewpoints. (This is a figurative use.)
  • Closed-off: Reserved, unwilling to share feelings. (Also a figurative use.)

Important Notes:

  • Past Tense: The past tense of "close" is "closed." (e.g., "I closed the door.")
  • Present Participle: “Closing” is the present participle (used with auxiliary verbs like “is,” “was,” “are,” etc.). (e.g., “He is closing the laptop.”)

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

  • What context are you interested in? (e.g., business, everyday conversation, writing, a specific situation)?
  • Do you want examples of a particular use of "closed"?

Synonyms for the word closed

Idioms of the word closed

behind closed doors
without the public being allowed to attend or know what is happening; in private
  • The meeting was held behind closed doors.
a closed book (to somebody)
a subject or person that you know nothing about
  • Nuclear physics is a closed book to most of us.
with your eyes shut/closed
very easily, without thinking about it
  • I've made this trip so often, I could do it with my eyes shut.

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