What is communication? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of communication

communicationnoun

/kəˌmjuːnɪˈkeɪʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of communication

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "communication" in English. It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown:

The General Sound:

The word is generally pronounced as: “kyoo-muh-nee-kay-shun”

Here's a more detailed breakdown of each syllable:

  • “kyoo” – Like the "cue" in "queue" (the British word). It’s a short, rounded "oo" sound.
  • “muh” – Like the "moo" in "moon."
  • “nee” – Pronounced as the “nee” in “knee.”
  • “kay” – Like the “kay” in “kayak.”
  • “shun” – Like the “shun” in "sun."

Putting it together: Kyoo-muh-nee-kay-shun

Tips for getting it right:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the third syllable – “kay.”
  • Linking: The "tion" at the end flows smoothly into the "shun." You almost don’t hear a distinct “tion” sound.

Resources for Hearing it:

Would you like me to:

  • Break it down syllable by syllable again?
  • Give you some minimal pairs (words that differ by only one sound) to help you differentiate it?

Usage and examples with the word communication in English

Let's break down how to use the word "communication" in English. It's a really versatile word with a few different aspects.

1. Basic Definition:

At its core, "communication" means the act of conveying information, ideas, thoughts, feelings, or emotions. It's about exchanging something between two or more people.

2. How to Use It as a Noun:

This is the most common usage. Here's how to use it as a noun:

  • General Communication: "Effective communication is key to a successful team." (Referring to communication as a process).
  • Types of Communication: “We need to improve our communication channels.” (Referring to the methods used – email, phone calls, meetings). "He specializes in interpersonal communication." (Referring to how people interact).
  • Communication Skills: “Taking a public speaking course will help you develop your communication skills.”
  • Communication Systems: "The internet provides a vast system of communication."
  • Formal Communication: “The company sent out a formal communication regarding the new policy.”

3. How to Use It as a Verb:

"Communication" can also be used as a verb – meaning to convey or exchange information.

  • “I need to communicate my concerns to my manager.” (You are doing the act of conveying your concerns.)
  • “The company is communicating its values to potential employees.” (The company is sending out its values.)
  • “They communicated their ideas clearly and concisely.” (They successfully shared their ideas.)

4. Common Phrases and Expressions with “Communication”:

  • Business Communication: Refers to communication within a business setting.
  • Interpersonal Communication: Communication between people, especially in social contexts.
  • Mass Communication: Communication reaching a large audience (e.g., television, newspapers).
  • Verbal Communication: Communication using spoken words.
  • Nonverbal Communication: Communication through body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice.
  • Digital Communication: Communication using electronic devices (email, social media, etc.).
  • Poor Communication: Communication that is unclear, confusing, or ineffective.
  • Open Communication: Communication that is honest, transparent, and encourages sharing.
  • Communication Breakdown: A failure in the communication process.

5. Examples in Sentences:

  • "The success of the project depended on clear communication between the design and engineering teams."
  • "She struggled with communication because she was shy."
  • "Effective communication helps to avoid misunderstandings."
  • “The negotiator skillfully facilitated the communication between the two parties.”

Tips for Using It Correctly:

  • Consider the Context: Think about what kind of communication you’re referring to. Is it a general process, a specific method, or a skill?
  • Use it with Adjectives: Adding adjectives like "effective," "poor," "open," or "digital" will make your sentences more descriptive.

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

  • What are you trying to use "communication" in? (e.g., a school essay, a work presentation, a casual conversation?)
  • Is there a specific sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word communication

Practice with vocabulary communication

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Effective _______ is essential for building strong relationships in the workplace.
  2. The team struggled with the project due to poor __________ among members.
  3. Mastering public speaking can improve your ability to convey ideas clearly and confidently.
  4. The manager emphasized the importance of active listening during meetings.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following is crucial for successful teamwork?
    a) Communication
    b) Isolation
    c) Procrastination
    d) Distraction

  2. What does "collaboration" primarily rely on?
    a) Silence
    b) Communication
    c) Competition
    d) Misunderstanding

  3. Which word describes the exchange of information between people?
    a) Discussion
    b) Argument
    c) Communication
    d) Silence

  4. What is the best way to resolve conflicts in a group?
    a) Avoiding each other
    b) Open dialogue
    c) Ignoring the issue
    d) Blaming others

  5. Which term refers to the ability to express thoughts clearly?
    a) Articulation
    b) Miscommunication
    c) Confusion
    d) Hesitation

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: She was good at talking to people.
    Rewrite: She excelled in communication.

  2. Original: The email was unclear, so no one understood the instructions.
    Rewrite: Poor communication in the email led to confusion about the instructions.

  3. Original: The team discussed the problem and found a solution.
    Rewrite: The team exchanged ideas and resolved the issue.

Answers
Exercise 1:

  1. communication
  2. communication
  3. (no answer needed)
  4. (no answer needed)

Exercise 2:

  1. a) Communication
  2. b) Communication
  3. c) Communication
  4. b) Open dialogue
  5. a) Articulation

Exercise 3:

  1. She excelled in communication.
  2. Poor communication in the email led to confusion about the instructions.
  3. The team exchanged ideas and resolved the issue.

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